This is to Certify that
The President of the United States of America
Takes Pleasure in Presenting

THE NAVY CROSS
to

*RADOMSKI, STANLELY BERNARDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Stanlely Bernard Radomski (351245), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with
Headquarters and Service Company, First Engineer Battalion, FIRST Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Peleliu in
the Palau Group, on 15 September 1944. After Japanese troops had infiltrated
our lines and set up two automatic weapons which were inflicting serious
casualties and hampering the advance of our forces, Corporal Radomski left the
comparative safety of his position and, with another Marine, boldly advanced
on t he hostile strong point in daring defiance of the unceasing barrages of
merciless rifle and machine-gun fire to charge the Japanese emplacement.
Mortally wounded by a savage burst from an enemy gun, he relentlessly
continued his advance and succeeded in destroying the Japanese emplacement,
annihilating eight of the enemy and capturing the two machine guns before he
collapsed as a result of his wounds. Subsequently evacuated, Corporal Radomski
died before medical aid could be administered. An indomitable fighter,
Corporal Radomski, by his aggressive initiative, tenacious determination and
great personal valor in the face of fanatic opposition, contributed
essentially to the success of our operations against this vital Japanese
stronghold. His resolute conduct and unwavering devotion to duty throughout a
period of fierce hostilities reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
01233 (May 3, 1945)
Born: at Redding, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Redding, Pennsylvania

RAGLAND, MAURICE A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Maurice A. Ragland (392436), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as
Leader of a Machine Gun Section of Company D, First Battalion, Third Marines,
THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), during the landing attack at Cape
Torokina, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 1 November 1943. When his gunners
found it impossible to carry out his command to fire upon three
mutually-supporting hostile bunkers because of the obstructing jungle growth,
Private First Class Ragland proceeded alone in the face of intense hostile
fire to the hazardous position and climbed to the roof of the center bunker.
Then using voice and hand signals, he skillfully directed the fire of his
command's guns against the Japanese emplacements, including the one on which
he was standing. Fiercely charging an enemy soldier who emerged and attempted
to throw grenades at his gun crews, he struck the enemy unconscious with his
fist and quickly hurled several grenades into the bunker beneath his feet. By
his superb initiative, decisive judgment and courage in the face of great
personal danger, Private First Class Ragland sustained and enhanced the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Commander, South Pacific: Serial 00314
(January 21, 1947)
Born: at Schuyler, Virginia
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

RAMLO, ORVIN HERBERTCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Orvin Herbert Ramlo (0-9383), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of
his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO
HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air
Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against
the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 and 5 June 1942.
During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Second Lieutenant
Ramlo, in a hail of blasting fire from Japanese fighter guns and anti-aircraft
batteries, dived his plane to the perilously low altitude of four hundred feet
before releasing his bomb. His courageous determination and extreme disregard
of personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 10, 1942

RASMUSSEN, HAAKON B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Haakon B. Rasmussen (0-20239), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while attached to the Third Battalion,
Twenty- Second Marines, Fifth Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, 17 February 1944. While
making a reconnaissance of the beaches on Engebi Island to detect mines and
underwater obstacles and to determine the most suitable approach for landing
craft, Second Lieutenant Rasmussen advanced to within sixty yards of the shore
and, despite the intensity of enemy fire, proceeded with his mission, noting
all hostile gun emplacements and making possible their destruction before the
landing of the Twenty-Second Marines on the following morning. Continuing his
daring action through three successive enemy engagements, he rendered
invaluable service during operations on Engebi, Eniwetok and Parry Islands by
blowing up enemy emplacements, underground tunnels and block houses which were
a serious menace to our forces. His cool courage, initiative and devotion to
duty reflect the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant Rasmussen and the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 02476
Born: at Pierre, South Dakota
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

RAY, JAMES RENWICKCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Renwick Ray (0-11606), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company F, Second Battalion,
Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces
during the assault on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 16 June 1944. Painfully
wounded during a fierce enemy counterattack on the morning of 16 June, First
Lieutenant Ray refused to be evacuated and continued his efforts in leading
his platoon. Constantly exposed to Japanese observation and fire in open
terrain, he moved about the platoon supervising the evacuation of the wounded,
replacement of casualties and the direction of fire, and personally observed
the enemy's movements. Although suffering from shock, pain and loss of blood,
First Lieutenant Ray maneuvered his troops to stop the Japanese advance which
was supported by intense concentrations of artillery, mortar and machine-gun
fire directed at his position and, by his outstanding leadership, courage and
devotion to duty under hostile fire, contributed greatly to the successful
repelling of the attack. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 6067
Born: at Tampa, Florida
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

RAYSBROOK, ROBERT D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert D. Raysbrook (277812), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving with
Headquarters Company, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces near Point Cruz, Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on 27 September 1942. Standing on a bare ridge completely exposed to
heavy Japanese machine gun, mortar and rifle fire, Sergeant Raysbrook, with
utter disregard for his own personal safety, and while his comrades were being
killed and wounded to the right and left of him, semaphored on each of three
occasions to a United States navy destroyer, giving the position of his
battalion landing party. As a result of this action his comrades, with
supporting fire from the guns of the destroyer, were able to inflict heavy
losses on the enemy, fight their way through Japanese lines and withdraw to
the beach. His outstanding courage and gallant intrepidity were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD (1942), Serial 0266a (SofN Signed
April 23, 1943)
Born: at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

REA, AMEDEOCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Amedeo Rea (0-7296), Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines,
FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands, 15 March 1945. When heavy hostile fire stopped his
Battalion's attack on the seventh consecutive day of unusually close contact
with well-camouflaged enemy caves in extremely rough terrain, Major Rea
advanced into the front lines and reorganized the remnants of his Battalion
which was reduced to forty-four percent of its full strength. Although
suffering from extreme fatigue, he then moved ahead of his front lines and
personally led his exhausted men in a four hundred yard charge which overran a
strongly defended Japanese ridge. By his fearless leadership, cool courage and
determination, he served as an inspiration to his men in seizing an objected
which contributed greatly to the ultimate success of the operation. His
devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 44532
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

*RECKUS, WILLIAM F.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William F. Reckus (0-17982), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company K,
Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, from 3 to 9 January 1944. A
courageous leader, First Lieutenant Reckus fought with sustained
aggressiveness during six successive days of offensive operations, on one
occasion fearlessly leading his platoon across a stream to drive the enemy
from pillboxes which were holding up the battalion's advance. Fiercely
attacking a hostile bivouac area from which heavy automatic fire was being
delivered, he succeeded in executing a withdrawal without casualty to his
gallant men despite overwhelming odds. Undaunted by grave hazards, he
persisted in his valiant fight, selflessly leading a hand grenade assault
against a heavily defended Japanese ridge until he fell, mortally wounded. His
daring initiative, forceful leadership, sound judgment and unfaltering
devotion to duty in the face of relentless opposition reflect the highest
credit upon First Lieutenant Reckus and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0832
(SofN Signed October 23, 1947)
Born: at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

REED, ROBERT S.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert S. Reed (317507), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, First Battalion,
Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces
during the assault on Saipan, Marianas islands, 17 June 1944. During a
Japanese tank attack which took place under the cover of darkness, Private
Reed accounted for four hits on four different hostile tanks with his rocket
launcher and, after running out of rockets, climbed upon a fifth tank and
dropped an incendiary grenade in the turret, thereby disabling the enemy
vehicle. His aggressive courage, initiative and devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 6067
Born: at Ozark, Arkansas
Home Town: Richmond, California

REMINGTON, DONALD A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald A. Remington (353979), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader in
a Machine Gun Platoon of Company E, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD
Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima,
Volcano Islands, from 26 February 1945 to 7 March 1945. Braving intense
hostile mortar and small-arms fire on 26 February, Corporal Remington brought
four wounded men to a covered position from which they could be evacuated and,
on the following day, when his platoon's advance was held up by several
connecting and supporting enemy pillboxes crawled to the nearest pillbox and
dropped grenades into the emplacement. Continuing in his efforts until he had
destroyed four pillboxes, he enabled the flame throwers to complete the
annihilation of the Japanese. On 7 March, when the evacuation of the wounded
was subjected to enemy fire, he discovered he could not cover the evacuation
from his prone position and, despite the hostile fire, rose and covered the
wounded with his rifle. His courage, intrepid spirit and devotion to duty
reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Remington and the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 48443
Born: March 9, 1924 at Kalamazoo, Michigan
Home Town: Bloomingdale, Michigan

RENNER, JOSEPH N.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph N. Renner (0-5200), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
while serving as Assistant Operations Officer and Fighter Director of the
FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 23 September 1942 to 7 December 1942.
Trapped in an overcrowded communications dugout when the first intense
shelling by Japanese battleships caught our forces unaware on the night of 11
October, Major Renner utilized his knowledge of naval bombardment to analyze
the sequence of firing and, between salvos, led all personnel from the exposed
communications center to a safer location. Although enemy bombers were still
overhead, he volunteered to ascertain the damage to the landing strip after
the shelling had ceased and, courageously surveying the strip on foot in the
dark with the aid of a flashlight, examined the craters and plotted their
position to plan his dawn strike. Despite the lack of communications, he
personally delivered the Commanding General's plan to the strike commander,
briefed the pilots and skillfully guided each of the only three aircraft
available which had not been damaged by the shelling down the crater-holed
runway. Throughout the unabated battle, he voluntarily examined the bomber
strip after each hostile attack in addition to his regular operations duties,
briefed the pilots and dispatched the first flight. Requesting and receiving
permission to take up a fighter plane on the night of 13 October, he remained
aloft alone until midnight despite intense fatigue, hoping to intercept and
destroy the harassing enemy and free the area from nightly raids which had
exhausted the Marines. During a period of merciless daily Japanese attacks by
land, sea and air, Major Renner's daring leadership, determination and
coolness under fire were contributing factors in maintaining air operations in
the face of numerous and severe handicaps. His unselfish consideration for
others and his exemplary devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest
credit on Major Renner and the United States Naval Service.Authority: Board Serial 3114 (December 2,
1948)
Born: at Minot, North Dakota
Home Town: Portland, Oregon

REUSSER, KENNETH L.(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth L. Reusser (0-11066), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
as Division Leader and Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron
THREE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-312), Marine Air Group THIRTY-THREE (MAG-33), FOURTH
Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces on
Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 10 May 1945. After expending his ammunition on an
enemy reconnaissance plane while flying on combat air patrol, Captain Reusser
skillfully maneuvered his plane to enable a friendly aircraft to make a
close-range attack. When the guns of his wingman failed, he flew with his
wingtip obstructing the Japanese pilot's evasionary tactics and, by allowing
the wingman the opportunity of running his propeller over the tail surface of
the hostile ship, contributed in large measure to the eventual crash of the
enemy craft. His superb airmanship, perseverance and courageous devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, Amphibious Forces,
Pacific: Serial 00698 (SofN Signed November 14, 1947)
Born: at Clovendale, Oregon
Home Town: Port Orchard, Washington
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (Korea)

REYNOLDS, HAROLD P.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harold P. Reynolds (331430), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company G,
Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces near the village of Sumeru on the Japanese-held island
of new Britain, on 30 December 1943. When hostile forces launched an early
morning assault and penetrated the defensive positions of his company, Private
First Class Reynolds unhesitatingly rushed forward in a fierce, determined
counterattack and, completely disregarding his own safety, killed eight of the
enemy. Although seriously wounded in the action, he continued throwing hand
grenades and firing his rifle at the assaulting units until he collapsed as a
result of his wounds. Private First Class Reynolds' great personal valor and
indomitable fighting spirit under extremely hazardous conditions were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0879
(SofN Signed November 15, 1944)
Born: at Canton, Ohio
Home Town: Canton, Ohio

*REYNOLDS, TERRENCE J., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Terrence J. Reynolds, Jr. (274278), Corporal, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while
serving with a machine gun platoon of Company D, First Battalion, Fifth
Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the morning of 1 November 1942. During a
Marine offensive west of the Matanikau River, Corporal Reynolds, when it
became necessary for Company C to effect a temporary organizational
withdrawal, picked up his light machine gun and ammunition belt, boldly rushed
forward and fired from the hip at hostile troops until he had halted their
attack. While still well forward of our lines, he was killed while thwarting
another enemy rush. His courageous initiative and self-sacrificing devotion to
duty permitted the consolidation of our lines necessary for subsequent action
against the Japanese. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his
country.SPOT AWARD (1943), Serial 00232 (SofN Signed
April 23, 1943)
Born: at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

*RICH, GERALD M.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Gerald M. Rich (323750), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader of
Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced),
in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Cape Torokina Area,
Bougainville, Solomon islands, 25 November 1943. In an attack on Grenade Hill,
Corporal Rich led his men forward to within twenty-five yards of concentrated
Japanese emplacements and, despite mortar, machine-gun and grenade fire,
seized and occupied several positions. When an enemy grenade landed in a spot
which would have imperiled the lives of three of his men, he risked his own
life to cover the grenade with his body. Although seriously wounded by the
force of the explosion, he gallantly remained with his squad and directed its
fire until ordered to retire and receive medical attention. His leadership,
courage and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon
Corporal Rich and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life
for his country.Commander, South Pacific: Serial 00370
(January 15, 1947)
Born: at Smithfield, Utah
Home Town: Smithfield, Utah

*RICHARDSON, HAROLD E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Harold E. Richardson (957035), Private, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Machine Gunner, serving with Company
I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 15 May 1945. Unable
to bring his machine gun to bear on hostile forces during a night
counterattack by the enemy, Private Richardson immediately picked up his
weapon, without the tripod, and fearlessly advanced approximately twenty-five
yards despite intense fire, rough terrain and darkness. Taking station in a
position exposed to the concentrated hostile barrage, he opened fire with his
machine gun, shooting it from the hip and killing at lest fifteen Japanese
before he was mortally wounded. His courageous action and indomitable fighting
spirit aided materially in breaking up the hostile counterattack and prevented
the enemy from infiltrating his company's lines, thereby reflecting the
highest credit upon Private Richardson and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
37763 (November 21, 1945)
Born: at Summerfield, Kansas
Home Town: Pawnee City, Nebraska

*RICHARDSON, OBERT C.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Obert C. Richardson (0-27822), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Leader of a Tank
Platoon attached to Company A, Fifth Tank Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 24
February 1945. When his company's command tank struck a mine and was
completely disabled while spearheading a corps attack against the enemy's
strongly organized defenses north of Motoyama Airfield Number One, First
Lieutenant Richardson immediately assumed command of the tank company and
continued to lead the advance across the taxi strip which connected Airfield
Number One with enemy-held Airfield Number Two. Prepared to run the gauntlet,
he braved a terrific concentration of antitank fire and the known danger of
implanted mines to drive at maximum speed toward the objective and, refusing
to halt or slacken his accelerated progress under the smashing bombardment
laid down by continuously firing Japanese mortars, artillery and large caliber
weapons, staunchly bore the brunt of an overwhelming volume of hostile fire
throughout the plunging, hurtling advance of his heavy armored column until,
suddenly striking an aerial torpedo implanted as a land mine, his tank was
completely demolished a scant fifty yards from the enemy airfield. Instantly
killed in the explosion which destroyed his vehicle, First Lieutenant
Richardson, by his aggressive headlong drive on the assigned objective, had
succeeded in diverting the enemy's tremendous fire power from advancing
elements on the right flank, enabling those units to reach and occupy the
objective and thereby effect a penetration of the Japanese main line of
defense. His outstanding valor, dauntless fighting spirit and indomitable
determination in the face of insuperable odds, reflect the highest credit upon
First Lieutenant Richardson and upon the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
34992 (September 17, 1945)
Born: at Berea, Kentucky
Home Town: Pacific Palisades, California

*RICHEY, WILLIAM F.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William F. Richey (324137), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, First
Battalion, Eighth Marines (Reinforced), SECOND Marine Division, in combat
against enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon Island, on 23 November
1942. Knowing that it was impossible for his comrades to advance as long as
two enemy machine guns which were holding a commanding position remained in
action, Private Richey with two other Marines volunteered to dislodge them.
Fighting his way through a hail of machine-gun and sniper fire up to an
advantageous position, he threw hand grenades into the enemy emplacement,
silencing the gun. Rushing the position, he repeated the process, silencing
the second gun. While returning to our lines with a captured machine gun, he
was killed. His inspired acts of valor, in the face of almost certain death,
were instrumental in breaking the deadlock with the enemy and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life for his country.Board Serial: 1177 (July 8, 1943)
Home Town: Tyler, Texas

RIDLON, WALTER J., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Walter J. Ridlon, Jr. (0-7777), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion,
Twenty- Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 16 March
1945. When all his officer platoon leaders and many non-commissioned officers
were wounded during several unsuccessful attempts to attack and capture a
strongly defended hostile position, Captain Ridlon moved forward of his
company alone, assaulted two enemy bunkers with grenades and, calling for a
flame thrower operator, covered the entrance to the first bunker while the
operator shot a flame into the same emplacement. Constantly under heavy fire
from the right which incapacitated the flame thrower operator, he continued
forward to the second bunker alone and, although painfully wounded by grenades
when several Japanese ran out, succeeded in neutralizing the second
entrenchment. Ordering his company to move forward and join him on the ridge,
he established a strong defensive position for the night and, refusing
evacuation for his wounds, brilliantly led them during the remained of the
operation. By his valor and quick thinking at a precarious moment, he rallied
his troops and directed them in occupying an important objective. His
indomitable fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty reflect the
highest credit upon Captain Ridlon and the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 46173
Born: at Medford, Massachusetts
Home Town: Medford, Massachusetts

*RIEGEL, JAMES E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James E. Riegel (479853), Private, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while
serving with Company F, SECOND Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the landing attack of the THIRD Marine Division
(Reinforced), in the Cape Torokina Area, Bougainville Island, British Solomon
Islands, on 1 November 1943. When his platoon became immobilized by heavy
machine-gun fire from an enemy gun emplacement during the assault in the Cape
Torokina area, Private Riegel, acting as an automatic rifleman, passed his
weapon to a comrade and, obtaining several hand grenades from the other men,
unhesitatingly advanced toward the hostile emplacement. Making a hazardous
frontal attack, he hurled grenades into the enemy position and, although
fatally wounded, succeeded in destroying it. Private Riegel's courageous
initiative and heroic devotion to duty enabled his platoon to continue its
advance against the enemy and were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Board Serial: 0056 (March 1, 1944)
Born: at Troy, Ohio
Home Town: Santa Rita, New Mexico

RINEER, FRANCIS D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Francis D. Rineer (0-11612), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion,
First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces
at Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 20 September 1944. Assuming command after his
Commanding Officer had become a casualty during the initial fighting, First
Lieutenant Rineer boldly led his company in repeated attacks against the enemy
entrenched in dense jungle concealing a network of pillboxes. With only forty
men left in his company on the morning of 20 September, he assaulted the steep
coral slopes of Hill 100 in the face of intense fire emanating from hostile
machine guns entrenched in coral caves and personally remained in the midst of
the furious fighting to urge his men forward until seriously wounded in both
legs. Steadfastly refusing evacuation, First Lieutenant Rineer courageously
struggled forward to commanding ground and calmly organized his twenty-four
remaining men into a defensive position from which they succeeded in
accomplishing their mission. His cool gallantry, daring initiative and
intrepid devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 00435
Born: at Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

RINGBLOM, ALLAN H.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Allan H. Ringblom (0-8025), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO
HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air
Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against
the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 and 5 June 1942.
During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Second Lieutenant
Ringblom, under tremendous fire from Japanese fighter guns and anti-aircraft
batteries, dived his plane to the perilously low altitude of four hundred feet
before releasing his bomb. On 4 June, after less than four hours' sleep, he
participated in an assault which resulted in the severe damaging of a Japanese
battleship. His cool courage and utter disregard of personal safety were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 10, 1942
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Miami, Florida

*RINGGOLD, CHARLES F.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Charles F. Ringgold (520848), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First
Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the
Island of Guam in the Marianas, on 24 July 1944. Wounded while countering the
enemy's first attempt to penetrate our lines that night, Private First Class
Ringgold proceeded to the rear where he received medical treatment, then
returned voluntarily to the flank position occupied by his machine-gun squad.
Steadfastly remaining at his post throughout the night, he repeatedly fought
off the persistent efforts of the Japanese troops to infiltrate his position
and succeeded in killing two of the enemy before succumbing to his wounds. By
his tireless vigilance, indomitable fighting spirit and determined fortitude,
Private First Class Ringgold was largely responsible for the successful
defense of his position, and his great personal valor and unwavering devotion
to duty in the face of ruthless, unceasing opposition reflect he highest
credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
004195 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at West Columbia, Texas
Home Town: West Columbia, Texas

RIPPEE, WILLIAM B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William B. Rippee (0-18978), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while attached to Company B, Second
Battalion, Eighteenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Tinian, Marianas Islands, 4 August 1944. Quick to act when
Japanese troops hidden in a cave attacked his patrol group and threw a grenade
into their midst, First Lieutenant Rippee unhesitatingly covered the missile
with his feet, taking the full impact of the explosion. By his prompt and
courageous action in the face of grave personal hazards, First Lieutenant
Rippee saved the lives of his men, and his inspiring leadership throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 21344 (SofN Signed April 16, 1947)
Born: at Hartville, Missouri
Home Town: Columbia, Missouri

*RIVERS, JOHNCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to John Rivers (350956), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a
Machine Gunner of the Eleventh Machine Gun Squad, Company H, Second Battalion,
First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese armed
forces at the Tenaru River, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 21 August 1942.
Lacking the protection of riflemen, Private Rivers' machine gun squad was
forced to tear down its frontal protection to meet the oncoming strong
Japanese landing force. In spite of tremendous difficulties the enemy attack
was met and repulsed by fierce and determined fighting during which Private
Rivers was killed. His personal valor and courageous devotion to duty
contributed to the defeat of the enemy. He gallantly gave up his life in the
service of his country.SPOT AWARD, SERIAL: 18 (Signed march 18, 1943)
Home Town: Quakertown, Pennsylvania

ROBB, WILLIAM G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William G. Robb (0-5201), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion,
Twenty-Ninth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 17 to 18 May 1945. An inspiring and
forceful leader, Lieutenant Colonel Robb led his Battalion in the seizure of
the most important and desperately defended terrain feature in the Division
zone of action, capturing the keystone of the enemy defense in the Naha-Shuri
line. Though repulsed three times by a fanatical defense which was constantly
being reinforced by fresh troops, he requested permission to attack Sugar Loaf
Hill again despite heavy casualties from the previous attacks. Exposing
himself to enemy fire on many occasions in order to encourage his men and to
direct more effectively the attack on the vital objective, Lieutenant Colonel
Robb successfully seized the objective and held it in spite of a determined
and fierce enemy counterattack, thereby causing the enemy to withdraw from the
Naha-Shuri line. His courage and indomitable fighting spirit throughout were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 86000
Born: at Napa, Idaho
Home Town: Napa, Idaho

ROBBINS, FRANKLIN C.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Franklin C. Robbins (433097), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader of Company C, First
Battalion, Twenty- Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces during the assault and invasion of Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, from 19 February to 1 March 1945. Under heavy machine-gun and sniper
fire from a ridge cave to the left front, Corporal Robbins with two of his men
covering his movements, worked his way to the top and along the ridge until he
was directly over the entrance to the cave. Placing a demolition charge in the
mouth of the cave, he succeeded in annihilating the enemy troops and
destroying their weapons and prevented further use of the cave. When a
well-camouflaged pillbox was discovered to be the source from which intense
machine-gun, rifle and mortar fire was bearing on his company on 1 March,
Corporal Robbins voluntarily braved intense enemy fire to advance in front of
a tank and lead it to a position from which it fired on the pillbox and
destroyed it. Painfully wounded during this gallant action, Corporal Robbins,
by his cool and courageous initiative and his devotion to duty, was directly
instrumental in neutralizing an enemy position, thereby upholding the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 48443
(June 23, 1950) (Upgraded from Silver Star)
Born: at Keisterville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Connellsville, Pennsylvania

*ROBERTON, DONALD R. A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Donald R. A. Roberton (348240), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while
serving as a member of a volunteer boat crew in Company B, SECOND Marine
Raider Battalion, during the Marine Raider Expedition against the
Japanese-held island of Makin in the Gilbert Islands on 17 and 18 August 1942.
Fully aware of the hazards of an imminent enemy air attack, and with complete
disregard for his own life, Private Roberton, with four others, volunteered to
take a boat to a point just outside a reef and shoot a line ashore to assist
in evacuating those men remaining on the beach. Caught on the sea, he was
defeated in his valiant efforts by the violent strafing of his boat by
withering enemy machine-gun fire. His great personal valor and loyal spirit of
self-sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his
country.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 21, 1942
Born: at Patterson, Louisiana
Home Town: Franklin, Louisiana

*ROBERTS, FRANCIS E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Francis E. Roberts (506022), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving with Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First
Provisional Marine Brigade, during action against enemy Japanese forces at
Guam, Marianas Islands, on 27 July 1944. When his platoon was subjected to
heavy enemy rifle and machine-gun fire from across an open field while
attempting to extend the flanks along a road, Private First Class Roberts and
five companions immediately utilized an abandoned and ruined concrete building
as cover and, while moving into it, were again fired upon from two concealed
hostile pillboxes in the rear. Locating one of the weapons, he fearlessly
charged the emplacement alone and succeeded in silencing the hostile fire by
the effective use of his rifle. Voluntarily taking station at a dangerously
prominent vantage point in an effort to draw their fire, he shouted
aggravating remarks to the enemy and, discovering their position, delivered
devastating counterfire against the emplacement. Seeking a more favorable
firing position outside the house when the machine gun across the field again
opened fire, he remained behind to cover the withdrawal of the other five men
then, on his own initiative, boldly pressed forward and destroyed the
remaining pillbox before he was fatally struck down by enemy sniper fire. An
intrepid and courageous fighter in the face of tremendous odds, Private First
Class Roberts contributed immeasurably to the success of our forces in
recapturing this vital hostile stronghold and his valiant devotion to duty
throughout reflects the highest credit upon the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
00445 (January 22, 1945)
Born: at Spokane, Washington
Home Town: Kelso, Washington

*ROBERTS, HAROLD C.(Third Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Second Gold
Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Harold C.
Roberts (0-3825), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as
commanding Officer of the Twenty-Second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 16 June 1945.
Preparing for the assault on an enemy-held ridge in which his regiment was
making the main effort of a Marine Division, Colonel Roberts established his
observation post on a hill about one-half mile from the objective, whence he
could see the entire regimental zone of action. When by-passed Japanese
pockets of resistance on the hill became active and subjected the observation
post to constant, intense mortar, grenade, and small-arms fire, he
courageously refused to leave his post but continued at the risk of his life
to direct the assault and, by his outstanding leadership and superb
coordination and employment of the combat units under his control, was largely
responsible for the rapid seizure of the objective by his regiment. While
observing the final overpowering of the enemy resistance, he was mortally
wounded by hostile rifle fire. His aggressiveness and brilliant combat tactics
were major factors in the successful operation of the division, and reflect
the highest credit upon Colonel Roberts and the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: serial
34821 (November 19, 1945)
Born: at Buffalo, New York
Home Town: Buffalo, New York
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWI), Navy Cross w/Gold Star (2nd Nicaragua)

ROBERTSON, DONN J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donn J. Robertson (0-5839), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as commanding Officer of the Third Battalion,
Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 23 March
1945. When his battalion was pinned down by intense hostile mortar,
machine-gun and grenade fire during a sustained drive to seize heavily
fortified Hill 362, on 28 February, Lieutenant Colonel Robertson voluntarily
left his position in the forward observation post and, moving along the front
line units, inspired his men to heroic effort in resuming the attack until
they had advanced up the southern slopes and seized the crest of this vitally
strategic hill. With the battalion badly depleted by casualties, only a
skeleton platoon left as a reserve, and all regular company commanders and
many platoon leaders dead, he rallied his tired, depleted units and directed
them to dig in for the night before the enemy, in a desperate attempt to split
the regimental front, launched a strong counterattack against the left flank
of the battalion. Refusing to permit a complete withdrawal, he dashed
fearlessly through heavy machine-gun and mortar fire to the imperiled position
and ordered an immediate attack which repulsed the Japanese and regained fifty
yards of lost terrain. Then, reorganizing his defenses by consolidating the
left of his line with the battalion on his left, he remained throughout the
night at the front lines, encouraging his exhausted men to hold fast despite
overwhelming odds and directed them in thwarting repeated attempts by the
Japanese to penetrate the regimental line. A brilliant and inspiring leader,
Lieutenant Colonel Robertson, by his daring initiative, perseverance and valor
maintained throughout the bitterly fought Iwo Campaign, upheld the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 44533
(June 5, 1946)
Born: September 9, 1916 at Willow City, North Dakota
Home Town: Minot, North Dakota

*ROGERS, LAWRENCE D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Lawrence D. Rogers (288035), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as
Leader of a Demolition Squad of the Third Engineer Battalion, THIRD Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, in the Volcano
Islands, 12 March 1945. Quick to act when one of his squad was seriously
wounded by a sudden barrage of slashing machine-gun fire, Private First Class
Rogers instantly ordered the remainder of his men to take cover and, then
guiding a corpsman to the fallen Marine, aided in carrying him to the rear.
Subsequently observing the direction of fire as the cave emplaced weapon again
opened up on his position, he fearlessly braved the shattered bursts to
advance upon the hostile installation and, approaching close to the opening,
hurled a heavy charge with a five-second fuse attached into the cave entrance.
Undaunted when the enemy returned the deadly missile, he caught up the charge,
dashed forward, and again threw it into the cave, sealing the position and
annihilating the enemy therein. Prepared to counter any sudden hostile move,
he made his way back to the rear, rejoined the waiting corpsman and was
attempting to evacuate the wounded Marine to an aid station when a second
Japanese machine-gun opened fire, killing the man on the stretcher. Ordering
the corpsman into a shellhole, Private First Class Rogers advanced on the
second cave, fired several rounds of ammunition into the opening and succeeded
in killing the hostile gun crew before he himself fell, mortally wounded. Cool
and courageous, he fought with determined valor in the face of savage
opposition and his staunch leadership, dynamic aggressiveness and
self-sacrificing devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon
Private First Class Rogers and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
34873 (September 17, 1945)
Born: at Bagley, Iowa
Home Town: Perry, Iowa

ROGERS, NEIL L.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Neil L. Rogers (832201), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving in a Platoon of the
Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine
Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces
on the Island of Guam in the Marianas Group, on 21 July 1944. Carrying a flame
thrower, Private First Class Rogers sprayed an enemy pillbox with fuel which
failed to ignite and, although wounded, braved hostile fire to crawl to the
pillbox and ignite the fuel-soaked position with matches. By his heroic
action, he destroyed the enemy pillbox, killed five of the Japanese and
prevented them from inflicting numerous casualties on the men of his platoon.
His great personal valor and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon
Private First Class Rogers and the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 0296-295
Born: at Union City, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Warren, Ohio

ROGERS, RAYMOND D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Raymond D. Rogers (308041), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as
Leader of a Fire Team of Company F, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, on 21 February 1945. When extremely heavy grenade and small arms fire
from an enemy cave position held up the advance of his company, Private First
Class Rogers voluntarily rushed across a wide open area to the cave entrance
despite fierce resistance from the hostile forces inside the position.
Covering his advance with hand grenades, he charged into the cave and, with
his pistol, destroyed the three Japanese occupants who had halted the advance.
By his initiative, he enabled his company to continue its advance without
casualties and contributed materially to the prompt destruction of the
remaining hostile troops in the area. His gallant fighting spirit and
unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 43157
Born: at Omer, Michigan
Home Town: Plymouth, Michigan

ROLLEN, CLAUDE G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Claude G. Rollen (0-11091), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion,
Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces
during the assault on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 17 June 1944. When his
company sector was undergoing a heavy attack by hostile tanks and supporting
infantry, Captain Rollen remained cool and aggressive, although his company
area was penetrated and overrun by the enemy and heavy casualties were
sustained. As the tanks were approaching his Command Post Area at one stage of
the action, he left his protected position and fired upon two tanks with
antitank grenades and, although the resultant explosion broke his eardrums,
continued to carry out his duties and control his company until ordered to be
evacuated after the attack had been successfully repulsed. His outstanding
courage, inspiring leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 6067 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Grandview, Texas
Home Town: San Diego, California

ROLLOW, JESSE D., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jesse D. Rollow, Jr. (0-7504), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of
his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO
HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air
Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against
the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 and 5 June 1942.
During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Second Lieutenant
Rollow, in a hail of blasting fire from Japanese fighter guns and antiaircraft
batteries, dived his plane to the perilously low altitude of four hundred feet
before releasing his bomb. His courageous determination and extreme disregard
of personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 10, 1942
Born: February 27, 1918 at Washington, D.C.

ROOSEVELT, JAMESCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Roosevelt (0-5477), Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Executive Officer, and
second in command of the SECOND Marine Raider Battalion, during the Marine
Raider Expedition against the Japanese-held island of Makin in the Gilbert
Islands on 17 and 18 August 1942. Risking his own life over and beyond the
ordinary call of duty, Major Roosevelt continually exposed himself to intense
machine-gun and sniper fire to ensure effective control of operations from the
command post. As a result of his successful maintenance of communications with
his supporting vessels, two enemy surface ships, whose presence was reported,
were destroyed by gun fire. Later during evacuation, he displayed exemplary
courage in personally rescuing three men from drowning in the heavy surf. His
gallant conduct and his inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
Born: December 23, 1907 at New York, New York
Home Town: Beverly Hills, California

ROTHSCHILD, MAIER J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Maier J. Rothschild (344898), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a member of an
Anti-Aircraft unit, attached to the NINTH Defense Battalion, Fleet Marine
Force, at Zanana Beach, New Georgia Island, in action against enemy Japanese
forces on 17 July 1943. When the Japanese threatened to recapture a beachhead
established by our forces, Corporal Rothschild volunteered to man one of two
salvaged machine guns in order to defend our precarious position. At risk of
his life and greatly outnumbered, he allowed the enemy to approach close to
his emplacement before opening fire and, as a result, assisted in wiping out a
hostile mortar crew. Later, when his gun jammed and a Japanese officer
viciously attacked him, Corporal Rothschild fought with him in hand-to-hand
combat, killing his opponent. Despite his own injuries, he returned to his
gun, repaired it and valiantly continued to battle the enemy forces until
relief finally arrived. His unswerving devotion to duty and great courage
prevented, to a major degree, the recapturing of the beachhead and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 5875 (July 21, 1944)
Born: at Yonkers, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

*ROUNTREE, BENJAMIN C.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Benjamin C. Rountree (493919), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau
Group, on 29 September 1944. Fighting relentlessly during the fierce
hostilities in the northern sector of this strongly defended island, Private
First Class Rountree was forced by the terrific opposition to take cover in a
foxhole. When an enemy grenade was hurled into his position, he immediately
threw himself on the deadly charge, absorbing the full impact of the explosion
with his own body in a valiant effort to safeguard others. His cool courage,
resolute fortitude and self-sacrificing conduct, reflect the highest credit
upon Private First Class Rountree and the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
01438 (March 28, 1945)
Born: at Lubbock, Texas
Home Town: Fairfield, Illinois

*RUESS, EDWARDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Edward Ruess (0-27045), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Platoon Leader, attached to Company G,
Second Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands, 13 May 1945.
Landing his platoon in the assault on a heavily defended enemy ridge near
Sugar Loaf Hill, First Lieutenant Ruess suddenly encountered intense hostile
fire from concealed Japanese emplacements which seriously wounded him and
resulted in numerous casualties among his men. Unable to determine the sources
of enemy fire, he deliberately exposed himself to the Japanese in order that
covering fire could be effectively directed. Mortally wounded during this
action, First Lieutenant Ruess, by his valiant conduct and unflinching
devotion to duty, had enabled adjacent units to cover the withdrawal of his
men and the evacuation of casualties. His courage, fortitude and
self-sacrificing spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
36377 (November 6, 1945)
Born: at Englewood, New Jersey
Home Town: Englewood, New Jersey

RUHSAM, JOHN W.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John W. Ruhsam (0-30883), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Section Leader and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron THREE
HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE (VMF-323), Marine Air Group THIRTY-THREE (MAG-33), FOURTH
Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the
vicinity of Ie Shima, Ryukyu Islands, on 4 May 1945. Flying on combat air
patrol, Second Lieutenant Ruhsam signed an enemy bomber-type aircraft
disappearing over the horizon and, giving chase with his wingman, encountered
a Japanese force of approximately twenty-five suicide dive bombers headed for
friendly shipping off Okinawa. Undaunted by the formidable array, he initiated
an immediate attack and, alternating with his wingman, made repeated runs on
the hostile formation to shoot down four of the enemy craft and damage three
others, finally joining his wingman in scattering the remainder. His
indomitable fighting spirit, courageous airmanship and devotion to duty were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 89843
Born: at Albert Lea, Minnesota
Home Town: Albert Lea, Minnesota

*RUIZ, EDWARD J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Edward J. Ruiz (419967), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Forward Observer
for the 81- mm. mortar platoon of Headquarters Company, Second Battalion,
Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese
forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 20 and 21 May 1945. Sensing the imminence
of an enemy counterattack when hostile artillery and knee-mortar fire from the
reverse slope of a hill blasted with increasing tempo on the battalion's lines
in defiladed defensive positions, Corporal Ruiz seized the field telephone
connected to the gun battery and voluntarily crawled from his foxhole
twenty-five yards forward to the crest of the hill. Guided by the light of
flares, he called down mortar fire on hostile troops which could be spotted
moving toward his unit's position. Mortally wounded by a Japanese mortar
shell, he stoically disregarded his own pain and the added peril from mortar
fire and hand grenades falling on all sides and, refusing evacuation,
continued to direct the fire of his gun battery. Consenting to evacuation only
after the counterattack had been completely repulsed with many of the Japanese
having reached positions ten yards away before being killed, Corporal Ruiz, by
his fortitude, valiant fighting spirit and courageous determination, had
prevented the enemy from taking a heavy toll of casualties among his comrades.
His unwavering devotion to duty throughout this extremely hazardous action
reflects the highest credit upon Corporal Ruiz and the United States Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
02022 (January 10, 1946)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Woburn, Massachusetts

RUPERTUS, WILLIAM H.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William H. Rupertus (0-852), Brigadier General, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as Commander of a Landing
Force Task Organization comprised of the FIRST Raider Battalion, the Second
Battalion, FIFTH Marines, and the FIRST Parachute Battalion, in action against
enemy Japanese forces during the attack on the Solomon Islands, 7 to 9 August
1942. Despite the comparatively short time afforded him in which to organize
his command, Brigadier General Rupertus quickly and efficiently assembled a
provisional staff, and with their aid, his forces landed on Tulagi, Gavutu and
Tanambogo, British Solomon Islands, and successfully assaulted a series of
strategically disposed and strongly defended enemy positions. Personally
conducting the operation and dauntlessly exposing himself to enemy fire
whenever necessary, he displayed exceptional courage and cool determination
which served as an inspiration to the officers and men of his command. His
bold and judicious decisions and his high professional attainments contributed
effectively to the success of our operations in the Tulagi Area and his
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD (October 1942)
Born: at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

*RUTLEDGE, ALVIN O.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Alvin O. Rutledge (543804), Private, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as an
Assistant Machine gunner of Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines,
FOURTH Marine Division, inaction Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 4 March 1945.
During an intense barrage of concentrated hostile mortar and machine-gun fire
which forced the riflemen around him to withdraw, Private Rutledge remained
with his gunner at a position forty or fifty yards ahead of the front lines
and, when his companion was mortally wounded, bravely continued to man the gun
alone. Although his arm was rendered useless by wounds sustained when he was
hit in the hand and arm four times by enemy rifle fire, he boldly persisted in
maintaining fire until his weapon failed. Able to use only one of his hands
and with no protection except his rifle, Private Rugledge tenaciously held his
ground, repaired the gun and, delivering accurate machine-gun fire, repulsed
the Japanese, pinning them down until his comrades were able to reoccupy their
former positions and evacuate the wounded. His skill, valor and devotion to
duty in the face of grave peril reflect the highest credit on Private Rutledge
and the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 100459
Born: at Glasgow, West Virginia
Home Town: Glasgow, West Virginia

*RYAN, JAMES S.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James S. Ryan (820401), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Demolitions
Group Leader of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH
Marine Division, during action on enemy Japanese-held Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, 20 February 1945. When two attacking companies were held up by heavy
machine-gun and rifle fire from six supporting pillboxes at the base of Mount
Suribachi, Corpora Ryan placed his demolitions group to deliver covering fire
and, acting on his own initiative, went forward alone in the midst of heavy
hostile cross-fire to the enemy positions. Placing and igniting the demolition
charges, he went from pillbox to pillbox, throwing explosive charges inside
and entering the fortifications after each explosion to kill the remaining
Japanese in hand-to-hand combat. In this matter, he completely destroyed five
pillboxes and annihilated all occupants. He remained exposed to Japanese fire,
reconnoitering a route to the sixth, until he fell, mortally wounded by an
enemy mortar shell. By his daring initiative and fearless devotion to duty,
Corporal Ryan enabled the two assault companies to continue their advance and
thereby contributed materially to the capture of Mount Suribachi. His
courageous conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
35164 (October 10, 1945)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: San Antonio, Texas

RYAN, MICHAEL PATRICKCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Michael Patrick Ryan (0-6934), Major, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving as Commanding
Officer of Company L, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division,
and also as Commanding Officer of a Composite Battalion, in action against
enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, from 20
to 24 November 1943. Landing with his company in the fourth wave, Major Ryan
courageously led a fierce, determined assault against the enemy and, retaining
the initiative despite heavy casualties sustained by his forces, organized two
other rifle companies with his own into a composite battalion which, under his
skillful direction, successfully held a shallow beachhead throughout the
remainder of the day and night. On the following morning, he led his composite
unit in an aggressive attack toward the strongly-defended south beach of Betio
Island, continually exposing himself to intense hostile fire and inspiring his
men by his own personal valor until an important beachhead was cleared of the
Japanese and reinforcements and supplies could be landed for our forces
without resistance. Major Ryan's brilliant tactical ability and indomitable
fighting spirit in the face of grave peril contributed in large measure to the
ultimate capture of a highly strategic atoll and reflect great credit upon
himself, his gallant command and the United States Naval Service.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
0647
Born: January 30, 1916 at Osage, Kansas
Home Town: Galveston, Kansas

S

SABINI, JOHN A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John A. Sabini (0-14123), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving with
Company F, SECOND Marine Raider Battalion, Second Marine Raider Regiment
(Provisional), FIFTH Marine Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy
Japanese forces along the Numa Numa-Piva Trail, Bougainville, Solomon Islands,
on 9 November 1943. When his platoon was pinned down by enemy fire from
well-concealed emplacements, First Lieutenant Sabini rose from cover and ran
back and forth in the rear of his position, shouting at the Japanese in an
attempt to draw their fire and discover their location. When the enemy opened
fire, wounding him but still not revealing their position, he again rose to
his feet and continued to shout until the enemy began laying down heavy fire
which wounded him again but also revealed their location. By his courageous
act, First Lieutenant Sabini enabled his platoon to attack and drive out a
strong force of Japanese. His intrepid leadership and devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Commander, South Pacific: Serial 0056
(February 6, 1947)
Born: at Fort Sill, Oklahoma
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

*SAILER, JOSEPH, JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph Sailer, Jr. (0-4675), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED
THIRTY-TWO (VMSB-132), Marine Air Group FOURTEEN (MAG-14), FIRST Marine
Aircraft Wing, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Guadalcanal Area
of the Solomons Islands from 10 to 15 November 1942. Zealously seeking out and
engaging the enemy under extremely hazardous conditions, Major Sailer led six
attacks in spite of intense aerial opposition and anti-aircraft fire, scoring
direct hits on a Japanese battleship of the Kongo Class, a heavy cruiser, a
destroyer and two transports. His determined fighting spirit and unyielding
devotion to duty contributed decisively to our success in routing the Japanese
forces. His actions at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD (1943), Serial 0177 (SofN Signed
April 14, 1943)
Born: at Jamestown, Rhode Island
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

*SALZMAN, EDWARD E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Edward E. Salzman (410198), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the Second
Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 21 July 1944.
Observing an adjoining unit in an extremely untenable position, Sergeant
Salzman unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own personal safety
exposed himself to intense, persistent hostile fire in an effort to locate the
Japanese emplacements and direct the fire of his own platoon against them for
the purposes of assisting the other unit. Although mortally wounded while
carrying out this hazardous mission, he courageously dragged himself back to
his squad and, skillfully placing the men in advantageous positions, continued
to direct the fire accurately and effectively until he succumbed to his
wounds. Sergeant Salzman's brilliant initiative, indomitable fighting spirit
and self-sacrificing devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
004196 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at Santa Barbara, California
Home Town: Lompoc, California

SANDERS, WILLIAM H., IICitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William H. Sanders, II (0-15606), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving
as a Reconnaissance Officer of Company D, First Battalion, Second Marines,
SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio
Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 21 November 1943. When intense fire
from enemy shore emplacements inflicted heavy casualties on our forces as they
waded toward the beach, First Lieutenant Sanders voluntarily prepared to
attack the hostile positions with the aid of a Sergeant of his company.
Bringing a 75-mm. pack howitzer into use and neutralizing the devastating fire
of the first pillbox, he courageously rushed the position despite heavy fire
from another emplacement and destroyed the pillbox with hand grenades, moving
inside immediately thereafter to kill any remaining defenders. Under the
accurate covering fire of the Sergeant, he then crawled twenty-five yards to
the first of a group of four connecting emplacements and, completely
destroying the position with TNT, unhesitatingly advanced on the second
emplacement and annihilated the defenders with hand grenades. After throwing
several grenades into the third pillbox, he entered the position and succeeded
in hilling one of the Japanese before he, himself, was seriously wounded. By
his splendid initiative, First Lieutenant Sanders put out of action three
enemy .25 caliber and two 13-mm. machine guns and one 20-mm. anti-boat gun.
His indomitable fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 0647
Born: at Princeton, West Virginia
Home Town: Princeton, West Virginia

SANDISON, GORDON T.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Gordon T. Sandison (0-18990), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Officer in Charge of a Mortar Section
of Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas Islands, on 24 and
25 July 1944. When a platoon of his company was pinned down by heavy hostile
machine-gun and mortar fire during an advance up a deep ravine, First
Lieutenant Sandison courageously led his men into the ravine, assumed control
of a mortar squad already there and emplaced them near the front lines. Boldly
occupying an exposed position in front of the lines despite heavy fire, he
directed mortar fire against the enemy until the mortar ammunition was
expended and then assisted in consolidating the lines until he was wounded.
With his ammunition replenished during the night, he directed accurate mortar
fire from the front lines and thereby prevented a force of 250 Japanese from
concentrating for a coordinated attack. Despite his painful wound, intense
hostile fire and heavy casualties among his men on 25 July, First Lieutenant
Sandison ably supported his company in an enveloping attack and continually
exposed himself to heavy enemy mortar fire in order to move the wounded to
safety, repeatedly shielding the casualties with his own body until further
wounds necessitated his evacuation from the area. His fortitude, gallant
fighting spirit and valiant devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 00435
Born: at Auburn, Washington
Home Town: Port Angeles, Washington

*SANDOVAL, WILLIAM B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William B. Sandoval (0-7539), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the
line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron
TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval
Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces
against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 June
1942. Delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior
number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant Sandoval aided
in disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the effectiveness of their
attack, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces. As a
result of his courageous and daring tactics and because of the circumstances
attendant upon this engagement, there can be little doubt that Second
Lieutenant Sandoval gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.
He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 10, 1942
Born: at Los Angeles, California
Home Town: Huntington Park, California

SANDS, CHARLES S.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles S. Sands (0-13206), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism as Acting Executive Officer of Company B, Fifth Tank
Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 28 February 1945. Learning that the advance of
the infantry unit his company was supporting was held up by strong enemy fire
emanating from a narrow defile and sweeping the entire front of the supported
unit, Captain Sands entered the defile in his tank although he had been warned
that the terrain made it impossible for other tanks or infantry to support him
and, receiving fire from a hidden anti-tank gun which knocked off the armor
plate protecting his gas tank, skillfully maneuvered his vehicle and destroyed
the enemy gun and its crew. Although continuously under attack by hostile tank
destroyer teams, he proceeded down the narrow passage and destroyed two
machine guns and their crews, thereby enabling other tanks and infantry to
enter the defile, eliminate all resistance and resume a general advance. His
gallant fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 45500
Born: at Fairmont, West Virginia
Home Town: Gambrills, Maryland

SANDS, JAMES E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James E. Sands (344954), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a
member of a Rifle Company of the Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST
Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on 26 October 1942. In a counterattack to regain a position
through which the enemy had penetrated, Private Sands, armed only with hand
grenades, fearlessly rushed the Japanese emplacements. Knocking out one heavy
machine gun and a light gun position, he secured a favorable position for one
of our own weapons, kept on fighting until he was wounded in the hip, and then
refused aid until the position had been consolidated. His relentless fighting
spirit and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD (1942), Serial 00192 (SofN Signed
April 2, 1943)
Born: at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Naussau, New York

*SANDY, DONALD JACKSONCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Donald Jackson Sandy (988582), Private, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with
Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during
operations against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 7 May
1945. During an attack on a tenaciously defended enemy ridge, Private Sandy
located a Japanese position which was causing heavy casualties in his company.
Advancing courageously to engage the enemy position by fire, he succeeded in
neutralizing it, continuing his solitary attack until all his ammunition was
expended. Braving intense mortar and small- arms fire to re-supply himself, he
returned to his advanced post and destroyed the hostile fortification with
grenades, killing all the enemy occupants, but sacrificing his own life to
accomplish his mission. By his courage and outstanding devotion to duty,
Private Sandy contributed materially to the success of our forces and upheld
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life for his country.Board Serial: 032388 (September 20, 1946)
Born: at Des Moines, Iowa
Home Town: Des Moines, Iowa

*SANGUEDOLCE, SILVIOCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Silvio Sanguedolce (275762), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as
Forward Observer for a Mortar Platoon with the Third Battalion, First Marines,
FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces in the
Matanikau River Area, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 23 October
1942. When heavy enemy fire disrupted communications and caused serious
casualties among members of the half track crew, Sergeant Sanguedolce risked
his life to help in reestablishing lines and by his skillful and determined
efforts enabled his Mortar Platoon to resume operations. Returning to his
post, he fearlessly exposed himself to hostile fire and continued his
dangerous task of observing the fire of his platoon until he was killed by the
enemy. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.Board Serial: 750 (May 3, 1943)
Born: at Cleveland, Ohio
Home Town: Cleveland, Ohio

SAVAGE, MERRITT M.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Merritt M. Savage (435581), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rifle Platoon
Leader of Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, 19 February 1945. Assuming command of an assault platoon, Sergeant
Savage ably directed the fire of mortars and 37-mm. guns to destroy a large
enemy mortar position and several pillboxes and blockhouses. Personally
executing a frontal attack on two more hostile pillboxes, he destroyed them
with hand grenades and a pistol and killed seven of the Japanese, thereby
enabling his company to reach its objective. His outstanding courage and
gallant devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Savage and
the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 42768
Born: at Glendale, Arizona
Home Town: Budkeye, Arizona

SCHECHTER, IRVINGCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Irving Schechter (0-7727), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company A, First Battalion,
Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the initial assault on Tinian, Marianas Islands, on 24
and 25 July 1944. Assigned the hazardous task of seizing a beachhead and
protecting the left flank of the entire landing force, Captain Schechter
landed his company on an extremely narrow beach among pitted cliffs and coral
boulders and, capably directing the movements of his men, boldly seized the
initial objective and organized a defensive position for the night. Furiously
attacked by the Japanese just before dawn, he constantly exposed himself to
hostile fire to direct his unit and, despite the tremendous odds, inspired his
men to hold on until they annihilated the enemy. Although his company could
man less than sixty rifles by daylight, he resumed the advance to expand the
beachhead and, during four hours of intensive fighting under his leadership,
accounted for four hundred Japanese dead and the capture of large quantities
of automatic weapons and mortars. Carrying out his dangerous mission with
consistent skill and courage, Captain Schechter contributed essentially to the
success of our forces during an important campaign, and his bold tactics and
brilliant leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 30 (SofN Signed July 21, 1947)
Born: at Smithtown Brancy, New York
Home Town: Smithtown Branch, New York

SCHEIDLEMAN, CEDRIC J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Cedric J. Scheidleman (0-27836), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company C, First
Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. When he
landed on the fire-swept beach with his troops in the early phases of the
operation, the assault wave in that sector had penetrated the beach as far as
the first line of defense where it was pinned down by intense hostile
machine-gun and 47-mm. gunfire from a large pillbox. Despite the great
personal danger of exposing himself to the rain of enemy fire, First
Lieutenant Scheidleman courageously proceeded alone forward of the front lines
toward the emplacement to a position from which he could neutralize the
hostile weapon with fragmentation and phosphorous grenades. Although wounded
while working his way forward, he gallantly advanced to the open embrasure and
drove out the enemy with grenade and carbine fire, sustaining additional
wounds in the course of this action. When two Japanese charged him with drawn
bayonets, he coolly killed both before they could reach him. By his aggressive
fighting spirit and coolness in the face of great danger, First Lieutenant
Scheidleman contributed greatly to the continuation of the attack in that
sector and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 79499
Born: at Ilion, New York
Home Town: Boonville, New York

SCHLENDERING, HAROLD G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harold G. Schlendering (0-7143), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of
his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO
HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air
Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against
the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 and 5 June 1942.
During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, First Lieutenant
Schlendering, then Second Lieutenant, in the face of withering fire from
Japanese fighter guns and anti-aircraft batteries, dived his plane to a
dangerously low altitude before releasing his bomb. Wounded in the leg, he
returned to a point within sight distance of his base, then was compelled to
bail out over the sea. His courageous devotion to duty and extreme disregard
of personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 10, 1942
Born: at Loveland, Colorado
Home Town: Pasadena, California

SCHMID, ALBERT ANDREWCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Albert Andrew Schmid (350951), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a
Machine Gunner of the Eleventh Machine Gun Squad, Company H, Second Battalion,
First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese armed
forces at the Tenaru River, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 21 August 1942.
Lacking the protection of riflemen, Private Schmid's machine gun squad was
forced to tear down its frontal protection to meet the oncoming strong
Japanese landing force. In spite of tremendous difficulties, the enemy attack
was courageously met and repulsed by fierce and determined fighting during
which Private Schmid was seriously wounded. His personal valor and loyal
devotion to duty contributed to the defeat of the enemy.SPOT AWARD (1942), Serial 18 (SofN Signed
March 18, 1943)
Born: October 20, 1920 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Burholme, Pennsylvania

SCHMILLE, DONALD E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald E. Schmille (523265), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a
Member of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, 13 March 1945. When his company's night defensive position was
suddenly blasted by fire from an eight- inch gun manned by an enemy force
which had emerged from a near-by cave shortly after dark, Private First Class
Schmille boldly went forward alone about twenty yards beyond the company's
front lines in an effort to silence the gun crew. As the Japanese sighted his
movement and attempted to stop him with a barrage of hand grenades, he
suddenly stood up and, in the midst of flying grenade fragments, fired his
rocket launcher and succeeded in scoring a direct hit on the emplacement,
rendering the enemy gun inoperative and annihilating most of its crew. By his
prompt action and determination in the face of grave hazards, Private First
Class Schmille saved his company from numerous casualties. His courage
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 86002 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Wathena, Kansas
Home Town: Kansas City, Kansas

SCHNEIDER, MERLIN F.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Merlin F. Schneider (0-3859), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism as Commanding Officer of the Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), First
Provisional Marine Brigade, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on
Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 July to 10 August 1944. Courageously leading
his regiment in an assault landing against strong Japanese shore defenses,
Colonel Schneider overran the enemy beach fortifications and aggressively led
his forces through the town beyond, despite fanatical hostile resistance.
Quickly consolidating his forces, he directed the assault of his regiment over
difficult terrain and against cleverly concealed and well-defended enemy
strong points to effect the capture of an important peninsula and vital harbor
areas. Constantly under enemy observation, he repeatedly exposed himself to
hostile fire in order to dispose his troops and direct their fire more
effectively. Participating in the final offensive, he skillfully directed his
regiment in the elimination of the last Japanese resistance on the island. By
his frequent demonstrations of personal courage, forceful and vigorous
leadership and excellent tactical handling of his command, Colonel Schneider
contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of an extremely
difficult mission. His gallant fighting spirit was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 1364 (SofN Signed May 2, 1947)
Born: at Clatskanie, Oregon
Home Town: Clatskanie, Oregon

SCHNEIDER, ROBERT G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert G. Schneider (351530), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, FIRST Marine Raider
Battalion, during the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal,
Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 and 14 September 1942. In the face of
continual enemy machine gun and mortar fire, Private Schneider, on his own
initiative, took charge of and assisted in carrying ammunition to our machine
guns and mortars along Lunga Ridge, thereby enabling these guns to keep in
action throughout the early morning hours during the height of the attack. His
indomitable fighting spirit and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23,
1943)
Born: at Newark, New Jersey
Home Town: Union, New Jersey

SCHRIER, HAROLD GEORGECitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harold George Schrier (0-19234), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Executive Officer of Company E, Second Battalion,
Twenty- Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 23 February 1945. On the
morning of 23 February when his combat team had advanced to the base of Mount
Suribachi after four days of severe fighting, First Lieutenant Schrier
volunteered to lead a forty-man patrol up the steep slopes of the mountain.
Quickly organizing his patrol and placing himself at its head, he began the
torturous climb up the side of the volcano, followed by his patrol in single
file. Employing the only known approach, an old Japanese trail, he swiftly
pushed on until, covered by all the supporting weapons of his battalion, he
gained the top of the mountain despite hostile small-arms and artillery fire.
Forced to engaged the remaining enemy in a sharp fire fight, he overcame them
without loss in his patrol and occupied the rim of the volcano. Although still
under enemy sniper fire, First Lieutenant Schrier, assisted by his Platoon
Sergeant, raised the National Colors over Mount Suribachi, planting the
flagstaff firmly on the highest knoll overlooking the crater, the first
American flag to fly over any land in the inner defenses of the Japanese
Empire. His inspiring leadership, courage and determination in the face of
overwhelming odds upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 42940
Born: October 17, 1916 at Corder, Missouri
Home Town: Lexington, Missouri

*SCHULTE, JOSEPH O. B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph O. B. Schulte (0-16256), First Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service
while serving as Leader of an Assault Platoon in the Third Battalion, Second
Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at
Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 and 21 November 1943.
Boldly leading his platoon to the beach in the first assault wave under
intense enemy fire, First Lieutenant Schulte was severely wounded but, after
five hours, finally regained consciousness. Discovering heavy casualties among
his platoon and adjacent units, he immediately reorganized the remaining men
and set up a defense on an isolated portion of the beach. Refusing to leave
his troops despite his own intense pain, First Lieutenant Schulte steadfastly
continued to administer first aid and supervise evacuation of casualties for a
period of forty-eight hours. His brilliant leadership, daring aggressiveness
and great personal valor maintained with utter disregard of personal safety
contributed to the saving of many lives and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Board Serial: 917 (March 24, 1944)
Born: at New Orleans, Louisiana
Home Town: New Orleans, Louisiana

SCHULTZ, CONRAD A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Conrad A. Schultz (970975), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as an Assistant
Driver of a Tank of Company B, First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on against enemy Japanese forces on
Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 11 June 1945. When his tank was hit and set afire by
a hostile anti-tank shell, Private First Class Schultz was severely burned and
injured by shell fragments and the driver was pinned in his compartment by a
heavy section of burning track which had been blown across the hatch. Although
suffering from his wounds and in the midst of heavy enemy machine-gun and
mortar fire, he pried the hot track loose and, despite the intense pain of his
charred hands, lifted the unconscious driver from the tank and carried him to
safety. By his personal bravery, initiative and grave concern for the welfare
of another, Private First Class Schultz upheld the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 86351
Born: at Klamath Falls, Oregon
Home Town: Tulelake, California

SCHULTZ, THOMAS A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Thomas A. Schultz (0-13211), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism as Executive Officer of Company C, First Battalion,
Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during the assault and
occupation of enemy Japanese-held Saipan Island in the Marianas, from 15 to 22
June 1944. Lacking an artillery forward observer during the bitter hostilities
on 19 June, First Lieutenant Schultz fearlessly went forward at night and,
directing our artillery fire with expert tactical ability, effectively
frustrated powerful enemy counter-measures during the crucial phase of our
operations in a sector which our troops had defended with decisive valor
against the fanatic Japanese onslaught earlier in the day. An indomitable
fighter, he led two rifle platoons in a bold assault on strongly fortified
hostile positions on Mount Tapotchau on 22 June, annihilating approximately
forty enemy troops. When his company came under shattering hostile mortar fire
and suffered heavy casualties later the same day, he organized a stretcher
party and, pushing through the tortuous tangle of heavily wooded area occupied
by scattered enemy troops, succeeded in evacuating twenty-five Marines before
he himself was killed. By his forceful leadership, intrepid fighting spirit
and relentless determination in the face of savage, unceasing opposition,
First Lieutenant Schultz contributed essentially to the ultimate conquest of
this important Japanese stronghold, and his unfailing courage and valiant
devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
12839 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

SCHWERIN, WILLIAM E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William E. Schwerin (0-7047), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while Commanding Company F,
SECOND Marine Raider Battalion during operations against enemy Japanese forces
on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, between 10 November 1942 and 4 December 1942.
On 14 November, leading a patrol from his company against an enemy base in a
narrow defile, Captain Schwerin, with utter disregard for his own personal
safety, daringly and skillfully seized the base, destroyed the enemy, and
captured a quantity of arms, ammunition, and military documents without loss
of a man in his patrol. Again on 30 November, he led his company against a
hostile stronghold on the upper Lunga River and, although the Japanese were
superior in number, executed a swift surprise attack, catching the enemy
unprepared and killing ninety Japanese and capturing a large supply of arms
and ammunition. His superb leadership and aggressive fighting spirit were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 0478 (SofN Signed July 17,
1943)
Born: at Portland, Oregon
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

SEAMAN, JAMES B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James B. Seaman (0-31543), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron THREE
HUNDRED TWENTY-TWO (VMF-322), Marine Air Group THIRTY-THREE (MAG-33), FOURTH
Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces north of
Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on the morning of 28 May 1945. After the U.S.S.
DREXLER was hit by one hostile suicide plane and lay dead in the water with
greatly reduced fire power, First Lieutenant Seaman courageously attacked on
the tail of another attacking enemy aircraft and braved heavy gunfire from the
U.S.S. DREXLER to force the enemy plane from its course. Then, observing that
the hostile suicide craft would not crash the water but had recovered and was
making another approach, he again attacked at close quarters and, in the face
of the ship's gunfire, continued to press his attack until the hostile plane
crashed into the stricken vessel. By his airmanship, fortitude and
determination, First Lieutenant Seaman upheld the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, Amphibious Forces,
Pacific: Serial 3167 (SofN Signed November 20, 1947)
Born: at Baker, Montana
Home Town: Baker, Montana

SEBOCK, JOSEPHCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph Sebock (336467), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving with
Company A, SECOND Marine Raider Battalion, during the Marine Raider Expedition
against the Japanese-held island of Makin in the Gilbert Islands on 17 and 18
August 1942. During a very critical period of the fight, Private First Class
Sebock, in company with a comrade, fighting valiantly and with great
determination, defeated successive and violent counter measures of enemy
Japanese and succeeded in holding the left flank of the assault echelon. His
courageous and determined action, performed with complete disregard for his
own personal safety, was a vital factor in the success of the raiding force
and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 21, 1942
Born: at Butler, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Harvey, Illinois

*SECREST, LANGDON R.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Langdon R. Secrest (332230), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company G,
Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces near the village of Sumeru on the Japanese-held island
of new Britain, on 30 December 1943. Immediately responding to a call from an
exposed machine-gun nest on the point of our defensive positions, Corporal
Secrest unhesitatingly faced withering automatic-weapon fire to proceed across
an open patch of ground with urgently needed belts of machine-gun ammunition.
Although suffering from a high malarial fever at the time of the action, he
courageously persisted in the fulfillment of his mission, insuring the
continued occupation of the important advance positions before he was fatally
wounded by Japanese fire. Corporal Secrest's daring initiative, his great
personal valor and resolute devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0862
(SofN Signed December 19, 1944)
Born: at Senecaville, Ohio
Home Town: Chester, Pennsylvania

*SEIVERLING, WILLIAM F., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William F. Seiverling, Jr. (369132), Private, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with
Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in combat
against enemy Japanese forces west of the Matanikau River in the Solomon
Islands Area on 1 November 1942. When ordered to fire on the enemy, Private
Seiverling unhesitatingly ran down the hill, directly in the face of enemy
fire, and attacked the Japanese, killing one sniper and possibly many others.
During the organization of the platoon, he covered the evacuation of the
wounded and then hearing that the Second Platoon was also in difficulty, he
voluntarily ran between the enemy and the platoon and covered its withdrawal,
killing several Japanese before he, himself, was hit by machine gun fire.
Although suffering from his injury, Private Seiverling managed to locate the
enemy position and with grim determination continued to deliver heavy fire
from his automatic rifle. As he started back over the ridge, he was fatally
wounded. By his great personal valor, aggressiveness and fine spirit of
self-sacrifice he was an inspiration to his comrades and undoubtedly saved the
lives of many while giving his own life in the defense of his country.Board Serial: 302 (March 5, 1943)
Born: at Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania

*SELBY, ROBERT B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert B. Selby (455383), Private First Class, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving
with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional
Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas
Islands, on 27 July 1944. Mortally wounded by fire from a concealed enemy
machine gun while proceeding down a trail through extremely hazardous and
densely wooded terrain, Private First Class Selby struggled to his feet and,
with superb courage, deliberately exposed himself to the enemy so that other
members of his squad could locate the hostile weapon, deploy and take cover.
By his great personal valor, his daring aggressiveness and decisive action in
voluntarily sacrificing his life for others, Private First Class Selby enabled
his comrades to locate and demolish the enemy position, and his valiant
devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
004068 (January 1, 1945)
Born: at Sturges, Michigan
Home Town: Burr Oak, Michigan

*SELF, HOWARD D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Howard D. Self (263725), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the
First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against
enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 2 July 1944. When his
company was pinned down by a strong enemy combat group equipped with machine
guns and grenade launchers, gunnery Sergeant Self skillfully disposed a
section of light machine guns to cover the emplacement and, fearlessly
exposing himself to the withering barrage to direct their fire, succeeded in
annihilating two of the hostile guns, thereby creating a diversion on one
flank and enabling riflemen to bring the position under devastating grenade
and rifle fire. Then, hastily reconnoitering the area, he selected new
positions and again displaced his section for further attack. Wounded by
hostile shellfire during the fierce action, he valiantly continued directing
the effective fire of his section until he was fatally struck down by a second
burst of enemy fire. By his daring initiative, inspiring leadership- and great
personal valor throughout the bitter assault, gunnery Sergeant Self enabled
the rifle elements of his company to overcome enemy resistance and continue
their advances, and his self-sacrificing devotion to duty was in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
12602 (January 25, 1945)
Born: at Cullman, Alabama
Home Town: Cullman, Alabama

SELK, JACK L.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jack L. Selk (516570), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rocket
launcher Operator, with Company G, Second Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND
Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan,
Marianas Islands, 15 June 1944. Voluntarily going forward under intense enemy
fire, Private First Class Selk worked his way to a position fifteen feet from
two oncoming Japanese tanks which had penetrated our lines and were attacking
the Regimental Command Post. Firing two well-aimed shots from his bazooka, he
scored two direct hits and disabled both tanks. His intrepid spirit, courage
and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Selk
and the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 6685
Born: at Long Beach, California
Home Town: Montrose, California

*SERGO, MIKE E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Mike E. Sergo (507188), Private First Class, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while with the First Battalion,
Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action
against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July 1944. With
several members of his squad seriously wounded during the initial landing on
the heavily-fortified beach, Private First Class Sergo promptly assumed
command of a group of men and, voluntarily exposing himself to intense hostile
small arms, machine-gun and mortar fire, cleared the area of the enemy by
skillful use of his rifle and gallantly led his squad to an inland position.
Ordered to move his men forward across an open field, he was immediately
attacked by the Japanese but, instead of seeking cover, boldly advanced toward
the enemy and opened fire, killing some, silencing their machine gun and
forcing the others to withdraw, thereby enabling his command to advance with
no further casualties. By his brilliant leadership, his daring initiative and
dauntless courage in the face of extreme peril, Private First Class Sergo
contributed essentially to the success of our forces in taking the initial
beachhead and to our ultimate occupation of this strategic island. His valiant
devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
004073 (January 1, 1945)
Born: at Lohrville, Wisconsin
Home Town: Lohrville, Wisconsin

SGANGA, JOSEPH T.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph T. Sganga (502740), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gun
Section Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH
Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, 5 March 1945. Voluntarily going forward of the front lines, Corporal
Sganga directed a tank over almost impassable terrain in order to bring fire
upon fortified enemy positions that were retarding the advance of his company.
Although the tank was subjected to heavy small-arms and mortar fire, he
remained on the tank telephone, directing fire until the resistance was
neutralized. When a tank which had completed its mission was unable to
withdraw because of hostile mortar fire and poor visibility over rough, rocky,
mine-infested terrain later that same day, he braved a heavy mortar barrage to
go to the aid of the tank and guide it in its withdrawal. His courage and
devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Sganga and the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 41627
Born: at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

*SHAFFNER, WALTER F.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Walter F. Shaffner (0-15301), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while attached to the First
Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, inaction Peleliu Island in
the Palau Group, on 1 October 1944. Leading his tank-supported platoon against
a steep coral ridge studded with caves and concrete machine-gun emplacements,
First Lieutenant Shaffner pushed relentlessly forward despite terrific enemy
mortar, machine-gun and antitank fire which inflicted heavy casualties on his
unit. Held up at a narrow causeway by the failure of communication with his
armored vehicles, he climbed to a dangerous prominent vantage point on the
turret of the leading tank, quickly organizing the fire of both vehicles and
infantry, and, when his tanks still were unable to cross the fire-swept
passage, placed himself at the head of the platoon and fearlessly led his men
in a daring sweep through the devastating rain of fire and on to the
objective. Repeatedly exposing himself to the enemy's unceasing barrage, he
disposed his men for defense of the ridge, then organized and led a detail
back across the causeway to bring up urgently needed ammunition. Mortally
wounded while boldly carrying supplies to the most forward elements of his
unit, First Lieutenant Shaffner had successfully fulfilled and extremely vital
and hazardous mission and, by his determined aggressiveness, indomitable
fighting spirit and great personal valor in the face of terrific opposition,
had contributed essentially to the ultimate conquest of the important Japanese
stronghold. His forceful leadership and unwavering devotion to duty throughout
reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
004426 (January 18, 1945)
Home Town: Dillon, Montana

SHAHEEN, ALBERT J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Albert J. Shaheen (467635), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader in
a Platoon of Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First
Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Guam in the Marianas Group, from 21 to
26 July 1944. Leading the point of his platoon along the beach under heavy
mortar and rifle fire, Sergeant Shaheen braved enemy fire to crawl within hand
grenade range of a hostile emplacement and, rushing the enemy, fired his
automatic rifle and silenced the position, thereby enabling his platoon to
continue the advance. Later in the operation when a Japanese officer attacked
him from behind and inflicted two severe saber wounds on his shoulder, he
killed the officer with his rifle and, despite his wounds, continued to lead
his squad in its attack, personally annihilating seven Japanese before
submitting to evacuation. His great personal valor and devotion to duty
reflect the highest credit on Sergeant Shaheen and the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 0296-295
Born: at Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Home Town: Pawtucket, Rhode Island

*SHAKER, CONRAD F.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Conrad F. Shaker (442621), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with
the First Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during
action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 19
February 1945. Landing on the heavily fortified beachhead during fierce
hostilities on D-Day, Corporal Shaker fearlessly risked his life in a valiant
attempt to wipe out a 20-mm. antiaircraft gun battery situated on commanding
ground and firing relentlessly on units of his battalion. Courageously
advancing alone under the enemy's fierce, concentrated shell-fire, he boldly
charged the emplacement with grenades and fixed bayonet and, fighting
furiously against tremendous odds, succeeded in killing the 12 Japanese troops
manning the weapon before he himself was mortally wounded. By his daring
initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor in the face
of almost certain death, Corporal Shaker contributed to the saving of many
lives and to the success of his battalion in carrying out its sustained
advance against a fanatic enemy. His self- sacrificing devotion to duty
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
31388 (June 18, 1945)
Born: at Elroy, Wisconsin
Home Town: Elroy, Wisconsin

*SHANLEY, JAMES V.(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James V. Shanley (0-8512), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism while attached to the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines,
FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape
Gloucester, New Britain, on 14 January 1944. With assault elements
disorganized and suffering heavy casualties under the vicious concentration of
enemy artillery, machine-gun and mortar fire after making a determined
struggle up the steep slopes of Hill 660 to its crest, Captain Shanley, alert
to the grim necessity of capturing the hill before nightfall, unhesitatingly
made his way to the front where, as senior officer initially present, he
assumed command of the elements of three different companies. Continually
exposing himself to enemy fire and narrowly escaping serious injury several
times as he personally led his men to strategic points, Captain Shanley
skillfully organized them for a frontal assault which overwhelmed the enemy
and swept them from the hill with heavy losses. His splendid leadership,
unrelenting aggressiveness and staunch devotion to duty inspired the valiant
officers and men of his command to supreme effort and were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0693
(SofN Signed September 14, 1944)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Plandome, Long Island, New York
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (WWII)

*SHANLEY, JAMES V.(Second Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James V. Shanley
(0-8512), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as
Commanding Officer of Company L, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST
Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Peleliu, Palau
Islands, on 4 October 1944. Steadily pressing forward over the extremely
difficult terrain, Captain Shanley's company assaulted and captured three
successive coral ridges against fanatic Japanese resistance. With the leading
assault platoon pinned down at the base of the ravine by Japanese fire
emanating from two higher peaks during an advance against the fourth ridge and
the route of supply and reinforcement entirely severed, he valiantly exposed
himself to the withering barrage to direct the withdrawal. Seeing the forward
platoon leader killed and many of the men wounded immediately thereafter,
Captain Shanley left his post and, risking his life in the face of the
unceasing barrage, proceeded to the aid of the fallen Marines and personally
carried two men to safety. Struck twice by bursting shellfire while rescuing a
third, he refused evacuation and continued directing the withdrawal of the
helpless platoon until succumbing to his wounds. By his brilliant leadership,
great personal valor and self-sacrificing devotion to his men, Captain Shanley
contributed to the saving of many lives and upheld the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
01388 (March 22, 1945)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Plandome, Long Island, New York
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)

SHANNON, WILLIAM L.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William L. Shannon (0-32657), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company A, First
Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. Landing
on D-day with the first wave of infantry, Second Lieutenant Shannon
courageously led his platoon inland in the face of intense hostile mortar,
rocket, artillery and small-arms fire. When his company's right flank was held
up by heavy machine-gun fire from an enemy pillbox, he advanced thirty yards
ahead of his front line troops with two riflemen covering him and, after
failing in an attempt to destroy the Japanese emplacement with hand grenades,
courageously led a charge on the two riflemen. Although subjected to
devastating hostile machine-gun fire from two mutually supporting enemy
positions during the charge, Second Lieutenant Shannon continued on inside the
position and, when his carbine jammed, clubbed the enemy manning the machine
gun to death while his two comrades bayoneted the remaining troops. His
bravery, initiative and aggressive fighting spirit throughout were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 46173
Born: at Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Watertown, Massachusetts

SHAPLEY, ALANCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Alan Shapley (0-4272), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Fourth Marines
(Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 July to 10 August 1944.
Courageously leading his regiment in an assault landing against strong enemy
beach defenses, Lieutenant Colonel Shapley rapidly seized the assigned
beachhead and defended the area against fanatical hostile counterattacks. Upon
relief of the force beachhead line, he valiantly led his troops in a
determined assault up the left half of the Orote Peninsula and, despite the
difficult terrain and strong enemy defenses, seized an important airfield and
annihilated the Japanese in that area. Vigorously patrolling in the southern
half of the island to eliminate hostile elements there, he then directed his
men in the final attack on the northern half of the island. His leadership,
caring combat tactics and great personal valor reflect the highest credit upon
Lieutenant Colonel Shapley and the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 349 (SofN Signed November 14, 1947)
Born: at New York, New York
Home Town: Carmel, California

*SHAWN, JOSEPH W.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph W. Shawn (331690), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Tank commander serving with Company A,
First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 17 June 1945. Unable, because of rough
terrain, to bring his tank to bear on a hostile position which had disabled
his platoon leader's tank and was continuing to fire on the vehicle, Platoon
Sergeant Shawn dismounted from his own tank and crawled forward to within
grenade range and hurled white phosphorous grenades into the Japanese
emplacement, creating a smoke screen and silencing the enemy fire. Under cover
of the screen, he directed an infantry fire team forward to evacuate the
wounded tank crew members and platoon leader. By his courageous initiative and
determination in the face of grave danger, Platoon Sergeant Shawn was
responsible for saving the lives of his comrades, and his valiant action
reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
032387 (November 6, 1945)
Born: at Saratoga, Texas
Home Town: Liberty, Texas

SHEEHAN, CHARLES M.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles M. Sheehan (528051), Private, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Flame Thrower
Operator in a Platoon of Company K, Third Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines,
FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the
invasion of Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 17 march 1945. When
his platoon was temporarily halted by fire from three hostile machine-guns on
22 February, Private Sheehan maneuvered his heavy equipment into position and,
without the protection of covering fire, silenced the guns, thereby enabling
his platoon to advance and seize its objective. On another occasion, after
volunteering to attempt the destruction of an enemy bunker impeding the
advance of his company, he moved close to the Japanese position and, despite
heavy sniper fire, pressed his attack until his flame thrower was hit and
damaged. Securing an automatic rifle form a wounded comrade, he again attacked
and destroyed the bunker and its occupants. His outstanding courage, intrepid
spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 41646
Born: at Belleville, Illinois
Home Town: Belleville, Illinois

*SHEEHAN, JOSEPH D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph D. Sheehan (310043), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with the First
Engineer Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces on Peleliu Island in the Palau Group, on 4 October 1944. Vigorously
supporting the advance of a friendly company, Sergeant Sheehan led his
demolition squad with furious aggressiveness. When the enemy hurled the full
force of their huge gun-batteries against the onrushing Marines and held them
up with the merciless enfilade fire of one cave-emplaced machine gun which
struck down forty-two of the forty-six men in the advancing unit and forced a
temporary withdrawal, he fearlessly pushed on alone despite the ceaseless
pounding of the heavy Japanese weapons. With the hostile cave as his
objective, he relentlessly worked his way forward and, reaching his goal,
dropped a powerful demolition charge into the Japanese position, destroying
the valuable machine gun and annihilating the entire gun crew. By his intrepid
initiative, resolute fortitude and decisive action in a critical situation,
Sergeant Sheehan contributed essentially to the final crushing of a ruthless
and fanatic enemy, and his great personal valor and unwavering devotion to
duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the United
States Naval Service.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
01315 (March 1, 1945)
Born: at Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: West Concord, Massachusetts

SHEIPE, ROBERT G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert G. Sheipe (457872), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Machine Gun
Squad Leader of Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH
Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, 26 February 1945. Volunteering his services for a hazardous mission,
Corporal Sheipe attempted to neutralize the fire of a hostile machine gun
holding up the advance of his company. Realizing the impossibility of
completing his mission by counter machine-gun fire after he had been wounded,
he refused immediate evacuation to work his way forward under intense sniper
fire to a position where he was able to throw hand grenades into the
emplacement. Although wounded again, Corporal Sheipe bravely continued to hurl
hand grenades until the position was destroyed and the occupants annihilated.
His outstanding courage, determination and devotion to duty were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 41646 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Pottsville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

SHELBURNE, CHARLES W.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles W. Shelburne (0-5078), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Fifth
Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese
forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, from 1 April to 22 June 1945. Skillfully
leading his Battalion through rugged and inaccurately mapped terrain
characterized by difficult cross corridors and absence of supply routes,
Lieutenant Colonel Shelburne vigorously eliminated stubborn enemy resistance
and assisted the advance of units on his flanks. In the final, desperately
contested phase of the campaign, he led his Battalion in a gallant fight
against strongly-entrenched and well-organized forces. On 24 May, he boldly
launched a surprise dawn attack on heavily-fortified Shuri Castle. Carrying
the assault through mud and over terrain which the enemy considered impassable
for an attacking force, he skillfully maneuvered his Battalion and, despite
intense hostile fire, quickly penetrated the moated castle and occupied the
strategic hill mass surrounding it. By his unfaltering leadership, skill and
courage under fire, Lieutenant Colonel Shelburne contributed materially to the
success of a difficult operation and upheld the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 79500
Born: at Kerrville, Texas
Home Town: Kerrville, Texas

SHEPPERD, CHARLES MEREDETHCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles Meredeth Shepperd (333270), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as
member of a Rifle Company of the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine
Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon
Islands, on 2 November 1942. While one company of Marines was engaged in a
flanking movement on an enemy position which was holding up the advance of the
battalion, and another, in frontal assault, was pinned down by machine gun and
artillery fire, Private First Class Shepperd's company was committed to
action. During the fighting, when the third platoon withdrew preparatory to
the firing of a mortar concentration, he remained in position, brought
automatic rifle fire to bear on a Japanese machine gun nest and killed its
crew of five men. He then advanced, captured the machine gun and carried it
back to our lines. His cool courage and utter disregard of personal safety
contributed materially to our cause and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 00192 (SofN Signed (April
2, 1943)
Born: at Whitehall, Maryland
Home Town: Whitehall, Maryland

SHIVELY, ALLEN E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Allen E. Shively (381292), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company K, Third Battalion,
Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third
Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the island of
Guam in the Marianas Group, 21 July 1944. Although seriously wounded during an
all night fire fight, Sergeant Shively took over and manned a machine gun for
five hours after two of his men were killed in their foxholes. Despite the
seriousness of his wounds, he remained at his gun and materially aided in
repulsing many strong hostile attacks. Attacked by a Japanese officer with
drawn saber, he wrestled the saber from the man in a desperate hand-to-hand
struggle and killed the enemy officer with the weapon. His great personal
valor and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Shively
and the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 0296-295
Born: March 3, 1924 at Henry County, Indiana
Home Town: New Castle, Indiana

*SHOEMAKER, WILLIAM G.(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William G. Shoemaker (0-13216), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving
as Platoon Leader in a Rifle Company of the First Battalion, Twenty-First
Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy Japanese
forces at Empress Augusta Bay, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, from 9 November
1943 to 21 December 1943. Halted at the crest of a vital enemy-held ridge by
fierce hostile machine-gun fire, First Lieutenant Shoemaker courageously
advanced despite wounds received previously and located the enemy emplacement,
enabling his men to destroy it. Repeating his daring tactics the following
day, he proceeded three times beyond his own lines, fearlessly drawing enemy
sniper fire in order to disclose Japanese gun positions, and subsequently
remained behind with three other men to prevent hostile interference in the
withdrawal of his units clearing the way for a mortar fire assault against the
enemy. On 18 December First Lieutenant Shoemaker voluntarily joined the relief
unit replacing his men and personally killed a Japanese gunner at his post,
later leading six flame- throwers in the destruction of several hostile
machine-gun positions. Refusing evacuation although wounded again, he
skillfully led the assault of a rifle platoon and captured another important
enemy emplacement. First Lieutenant Shoemaker's intrepid leadership and
inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, South Pacific: Serial
00856 (SofN Signed November 17, 1944)
Born: at Lynn, Massachusetts
Home Town: Lynn, Massachusetts
Other Award: Navy Cross w/Gold Star (WWII)

*SHOEMAKER, WILLIAM G.(Second Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William G.
Shoemaker (0-13216), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism while serving as Commanding Officer of Company A, First Battalion,
Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese
forces on the Asan-Adelup Beachhead, Guam, Marianas Islands, from 21 to 26
July 1944. Establishing defense for a strategic sector of the division
beachhead line on 22 July, Captain Shoemaker completed the relief after dark
and, subsequently guiding reserves into position at midnight, successfully
repulsed a sharp counterattack with great loss to the enemy. Skillfully
employing supporting mortar and artillery fire during a large-scale
counterattack preceded by an intense mortar barrage against his lines on 25
July, he effectively beat back the Japanese before they reached assault range.
Again the enemy attacked in full force; they penetrated our lines,
intermingled with our troops and caused confusion and disorganization. Hearing
the word "withdraw" passed by unknown authority, Captain Shoemaker
promptly stood up under withering shellfire and commanded his men to hold fast
and prevent the hostile troops from overrunning the entire beachhead. Then,
depleting his front line and establishing a strong support line which refused
his flank to the Japanese, he enabled his command to drive off succeeding
attempts by the enemy to widen the breach, and to hold until dawn. The
following morning, he directed an effective mortar barrage which destroyed the
Japanese who had penetrated, annihilated weapons crews advancing through a gap
in the ridge and personally led a devastating counterattack which completely
restored our lines. By his forceful and inspiring leadership, great personal
valor and outstanding devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds,
Captain Shoemaker contributed immeasurably to the success of our forces in
recapturing this vital Japanese stronghold and upheld the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
004429 (January 19, 1945)
Born: at Lynn, Massachusetts
Home Town: Lynn, Massachusetts
Other Award: Navy Cross (WWII)

*SHOOTMAN, CHARLES ROSCOECitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Charles Roscoe Shootman (826807), Private, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Member of a Demolition Squad serving
with the Fifth Engineer Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in connection with
operations against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands,
from 19 February to 10 March 1945. Vigilant and determined in the face of
extreme danger, Private Shootman repeatedly risked his life to clear the
difficult terrain of deadly explosive charges and, fearlessly preceding
infantry supporting tank elements in their relentless drive across the island,
aided materially in furthering the advance against savage enemy resistance.
Volunteering on 10 March to neutralize a tank trap studded with yardstick
mines discovered approximately fifty yards from the front lines and on a road
leading to the besieged position of friendly infantry units pinned down by
heavy mortar and small-arms fire, he warily moved forward and placed a
demolition charge, then dashed for cover and awaited the blast. Following the
explosion, he advanced to determine the safety of the roadway and discovered a
second ditch a short distance beyond the first. Again making his way forward,
he dropped down to investigate the trench. As he raised his head to give the
"All Clear" signal and motion the tanks forward, he was struck down
and instantly killed by a burst of concealed Japanese sniper fire. By his
daring initiative, great personal valor and tenacious determination in the
fulfillment of his hazardous tasks, Private Shootman served as an inspiration
to his comrades and his resolute conduct throughout a period of bitter
hostilities upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
31427 (June 21, 1945)
Born: at Coal Creek, Colorado
Home Town: Lafayette, Colorado

SHRIVER, CHARLES W.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles W. Shriver (302772), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Headquarters Company, Third
Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy
Japanese forces on Tinian, Marianas Islands, 2 August 1944. When an enemy hand
grenade landed in his foxhole during an attack on the Battalion Command Post,
Private Shriver quickly pushed the grenade into a corner and held it there
with his foot, thereby protecting the other occupant of the foxhole from
injury although he himself was seriously wounded by the explosion. His courage
and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private Shriver and the
United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 6068 (SofN Signed January 28, 1948)
Born: at Mannington, West Virginia
Home Town: Scio, Ohio

*SHUMANN, FRANK E., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Frank E. Shumann, Jr. (543326), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Member of a Division
Observation Post Team, serving with Headquarters Company, Headquarters
Battalion, SIXTH Marine Division, during operations against Japanese forces on
Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands, on 13 May 1945. Twice volunteering to enter the
town of Amike when it was still in hostile hands, Private First Class Shumann
on the first occasion went forward on a reconnaissance mission during which he
engaged and killed one of the enemy and, returning to his command post through
a barrage of close-range hostile fire, brought information of material value
in future operations. Later joining a combat patrol and assuming a point
position because he was familiar with the territory, he courageously reentered
the ruined town, kicking grenades out of his path and blazing away with his
gun to account for seven or eight Japanese who opened fire on him. Although
mortally wounded during this action, he continued to direct the movement of
the patrol and of the tanks which accompanied it until he succumbed. Private
First Class Shumann brought about the fall of the town with a minimum loss of
life and, by his tactical skill, presence of mind under fire and indomitable
devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming peril, upheld the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for
his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
35638 (September 29, 1945)
Born: at Albany, New York
Home Town: Easton, Pennsylvania

SILEO, NICHOLASCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Nicholas Sileo (296384), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as an Automatic
Rifleman in the Third Platoon of Company L, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines,
FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on during
attacks on Matanikau Village, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 18 and 19
August 1942. Although weakened by profuse bleeding due to the loss of three
fingers from his right hand, and severe neck and abdominal wounds caused by
Japanese machine-gun bullets, Private First Class Sileo continued to fire into
a hostile machine-gun nest which was impeding the progress of his platoon.
Despite the added danger of sniper fire from concealed positions in the tree
ahead, he engaged the enemy until the hostile gun emplacement could be
neutralized. By his splendid courage and gallant fighting spirit, he
contributed directly to the safety of his platoon and to the eventual success
of the action. Private First Class Silo's exceptional fortitude, determination
and unwavering devotion to duty under enemy fire reflect the highest credit
upon himself and the United States Naval Service.Board Serial: 18 (March 10, 1951)
Born: at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

*SIMMERS, JAMES T.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James T. Simmers (290952), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as Assistant Squad Leader, serving with Battery A, First
Battalion, FOURTH Marines (Detached) as member of a Navy Bluejacket-Marine
Battalion, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Fort Mills, Corregidor,
Philippine Islands, 6 May 1942. Stationed alone in an isolated firing position
on a steep slope above the Corregidor beach when the main Japanese landing was
effected, Corporal Simmers single-handedly engaged two barge loads of hostile
troops that landed directly beneath him. As the occupants of these barges
disembarked and rushed to the slope in small groups, Corporal Simmers
valiantly stood his ground, threw approximately twenty-five hand grenades into
the ranks of his attackers and then started firing an automatic rifle, boldly
fighting on alone until the barges pulled offshore and the few surviving
Japanese ashore fled down the beach. By his initiative, determination and
courage, Corporal Simmers succeeded in annihilating approximately one hundred
of the enemy and in preventing them from gaining a stronghold near his post.
His heroic conduct and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon
himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for
his country.Board Serial: SPECIAL (March 11, 1947)
Born: at Fairfield, California
Home Town: Fairfield, California

SIMMONDS, WESLEY P.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Wesley P. Simmonds (327041), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a
member of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division,
during action against enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands,
on 27 August 1942. When nine casualties were sustained by his company during a
frontal assault against a strongly fortified enemy position, Private First
Class Simmonds, with no thought of his own personal safety, boldly advanced in
the face of severe fire from enemy mortars, machine guns and snipers in a
valiant attempt to evacuate the wounded from their perilous position well
forward of the company position. Although he was severely wounded by fire from
a nearby enemy machine gun nest as he attempted to carry an injured comrade,
his gallant spirit of self-sacrifice inspired others to follow his example
and, as a result, the wounded men were rescued. His actions at all times were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD (1942), Serial 18 (SofN Signed
March 18, 1943)
Born: at Climax Township, Michigan
Home Town: Cressey, Michigan

SIMMONS, CLYDE A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Clyde A. Simmons (269471), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Section Leader
of Company I, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 17 June
1944. When the front lines were attacked by enemy tanks during the predawn
hours, Corporal Simmons skillfully led his bazooka section to assist the
troops under attack and, although subjected to intense hostile fire along the
route, courageously directed his men over open fields and under total darkness
to contact the Japanese. When three hostile tanks approached simultaneously,
he immediately manned the weapon of one of his seriously wounded men and
scored hits on all three vehicles, although continuously exposed to intense
enemy fire. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 341 (August 1945)
Home Town: Texas City, Texas

SIMONSON, HARVEY L.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harvey L. Simonson (423427), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving in a
Platoon of Company E, Second Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert
Islands, on 27 November 1943. Courageous and determined in the face of severe
hostile fire, Private First Class Simonson advanced into enemy-held territory
and, despite repeated hostile attempts to dislodge him from his position,
killed sixteen Japanese and greatly aided his platoon in regaining contact
with adjacent units. Later, when his company was relieved by another unit, he
steadfastly remained in position and continued firing at the enemy. His
indomitable fighting spirit and devotion to duty throughout reflect the
highest credit upon Private first Class Simonson and the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 01489
Born: at Broken Bow, Nebraska
Home Town: Missoula, Montana

SIMPSON, CARTER B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Carter B. Simpson (0-5959), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
distinguished service in action against the enemy while serving with the
FOURTH Marines (Detached) as member of a Navy Bluejacket-Marine Battalion, in
the defense of the Bataan Peninsula, Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 28
December 1941 to 3 April 1942. Lieutenant Simpson served with an anti-aircraft
battery which, due to conditions of terrain, was completely exposed to
observation and repeatedly subjected to heavy aerial bombardments. By his
courage, coolness and efficiency under great strain, Lieutenant Simpson
materially contributed to the efficient functioning of that battery during
repeated engagements against great odds. From 23 to 31 January 1942, while
serving with a composite Bluejacket-Marine Battalion which had been hastily
formed to expel a strong enemy detachment that had seized commanding ground
which dangerously threatened the Naval installations at Miravalis, Philippine
Islands, Lieutenant Simpson, by his resourcefulness, energy and outstanding
qualities of leadership, rendered conspicuous service in controlling and
handling mixed units in this action, which succeeded in isolating the enemy
force on Longoskawayan Point where it was destroyed. His actions at all times
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
August 12, 1942
Born: at Glenn Springs, South Carolina
Home Town: Charlottesville, Virginia

*SIMPSON, ROBERT E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert E. Simpson (302593), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with a Rifle Company
of the Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands,
on 20 November 1943. Moving inland after landing with his platoon, Sergeant
Simpson discovered that vital communication equipment had been left on the
beach by casualties and voluntarily dashed through a hail of bullets across
the exposed beach swept by three Japanese machine guns and retrieved the
valuable equipment. Then, Seeing a wounded and helpless officer lying directly
in the line of enemy fire, Sergeant Simpson unhesitatingly ran to his
assistance in a gallant effort to bring him to safety, but was killed in the
attempt. His great personal valor in the face of extreme danger was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave his life for his country.Board Serial: 2008 (May 16, 1944)
Born: at Clovis, California
Home Town: Fresno, California

SINGLETON, ROBERT M.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert M. Singleton (346995), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, First
Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, during
action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 18 June
1944. When his company's attack against an enemy-held ridge was held up by
fire from two hostile machine guns guarded by riflemen, Corporal Singleton
voluntarily advanced alone and, working his way to within ten feet of the
Japanese position, fired his automatic rifle, killing two of the enemy
riflemen. After throwing two hand grenades into the gun positions, he stood up
in view of the Japanese and again fired into the position, killing the six
Japanese soldiers manning the guns. His courage, initiative and devotion to
duty reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Singleton and the United States
Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 9468
Born: at Vernal, Utah
Home Town: Vernal, Utah

*SIZEMORE, JAMES L.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James L. Sizemore (0-18541), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Leader of a Rifle Platoon attached to
Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division,
during the assault and occupation of the enemy Japanese-held island of Saipan
in the Marianas Group, from 15 June to 6 July 1944. Making a determined stand
when the enemy launched a sudden fierce attack on his company position the
night of 6 July, First Lieutenant Sizemore resolutely held his ground,
directing his men and personally engaging in a savage fire fight, until, with
the sector overrun and his position rapidly becoming untenable, he gave the
order to withdraw a short distance to the rear to enable reorganization of his
unit. Courageously remaining in his original disposition at the mercy of a
ruthless enemy, he attempted communication with the company command post in an
effort to inform his commanding officer of the perilous situation but was
fatally struck down at his post. An inspiring leader, First Lieutenant
Sizemore, by his fearless initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and cool
decision in the face of fanatic and unceasing opposition, contributed
essentially to the conquest of this vital Japanese stronghold, and his great
personal valor and unyielding devotion to duty throughout a prolonged period
of bitter hostilities reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
2882 (March 22, 1945)
Born: at Cincinnati, Ohio
Home Town: Hazard, Kentucky

SLAGLE, JOHN WILSONCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Wilson Slagle (289704), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Platoon Sergeant
of a Rifle Platoon of Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-fifth Marines, FOURTH
Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas
Islands, on 15 June 1944. When his unit was subjected to heavy enemy artillery
and small-arms fire during the establishing of a beachhead, Platoon Sergeant
Slagle, on his own initiative, proceeded on foot approximately two hundred
yards through hostile fire to secure two armored amphibian tractors which were
vitally needed to further the attack. Finding, upon his return, that heavy
casualties were being inflicted by enemy fire from a fortified position, he
quickly organized an assault team composed of several men and personally led
them and the two armored amphibian tractors in a vigorous attack against the
hostile emplacement. Although painfully wounded during the action, he
continued to lead and direct the assault team until the enemy position was
completely wiped out, thereby contributing materially to the success of his
unit in reaching its objective. His fighting spirit and courageous leadership
reflect the highest credit on Platoon Sergeant Slagle and the United States
Naval Service.Fleet Marine Force, Pacific: Serial 20916
Born: at East Brady, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Kittaning, Pennsylvania

*SLAUGHTER, ORVAN S.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Orvan S. Slaughter (248692), First Sergeant, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as First
Sergeant of an assault company attached to the Second Battalion, Second
Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces
at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 22 November 1943.
Voluntarily assuming command when the officers of his company became
casualties, First Sergeant Slaughter courageously led his men forward under a
constant barrage of enemy shellfire and successfully destroyed three Japanese
pillboxes obstructing their advance before he himself was killed. His prompt
decision, daring aggressiveness and heroic self-sacrifice in the face of grave
peril directly contributed to the success of our forces in that area and were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Board Serial: 917 (March 24, 1944)
Born: at Alvord, Texas
Home Town: Las Vegas, New Mexico

*SLEEPER, LEROY M.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Leroy M. Sleeper (975436), Private, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving s a
Member of a Machine Gun Squad of Company L, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines,
SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the
battle for Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 2 April 1945. When his machine-gun
squad was ordered to cover the withdrawal of an infantry platoon trapped by
the enemy and suffering extremely heavy casualties, Private Sleeper, with his
squad, took a position within fifty yards of the Japanese-infested caves
concealed in the small ridges on both sides of a valley. On placing the gun in
position, the squad was met with furious hostile machine-gun and rifle fire
which wounded both the gunner and assistant gunner. Determined to provide the
cover necessary for the withdrawal of his comrades from their exposed
position, Private Sleeper ran over the top of a ridge and, with the full
volume of the enemy's fire concentrated on him, succeeded in hurling a white
phosphorous smoke grenade before he himself was fatally struck down. As a
result of this heroic action, the units were able to withdraw with their
wounded under the protective cover of smoke and continue the fight from a more
advantageous position. His courageous spirit of self-sacrifice and his
devotion to duty sustained and enhanced the finest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
2762 (July 9, 1947)
Born: at Guthrie, Oklahoma
Home Town: St. Cloud, Minnesota

SLUSSER, JOHN HARVEYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Harvey Slusser (0-12164), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving as a Platoon
Commander of Company F, SECOND Marine Raider Battalion, in action against
enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 30 November 1942.
Leading his platoon into an enemy bivouac on the upper Lunga River, Captain
Slusser, then Marine Gunner, initiated a daring attack on the objective which
caught a force of some ninety Japanese completely by surprise. Although vastly
outnumbered, he bravely charged into the bivouac at the head of his unit with
his automatic weapon blazing and, by his forceful and determined leadership,
served to inspire his men to heroic endeavor in killing seventy-five of the
enemy and in driving the remainder into the bush, achieving a complete victory
over the hostile force without the loss of a Marine. His superb courage,
outstanding initiative and valiant fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming
odds reflect the highest credit upon Captain Slusser and enhance the finest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Authority: Board Serial 526 (July 18, 1953)
Born: at Blacksburg, Virginia
Home Town: Blacksburg, Virginia

SMALLWOOD, GEORGE H.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to George H. Smallwood (275169), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company F,
Second Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 6 March 1945.
After his company had been halted by a hostile emplacement containing snipers,
machine guns and knee mortars and which was covered with mutually supporting
fire from another enemy position, Sergeant Smallwood courageously moved
forward armed with grenades to neutralize the position. Running out of
grenades and ammunition before completing his mission, he returned to his own
lines and, after obtaining a fresh supply, again made his way forward to
resume his hazardous mission and succeeded in eliminating the hostile strong
point before he was wounded. By his valiant action, Sergeant Smallwood enabled
his company to continue the advance and eventually occupy the position so
fiercely defended by the Japanese. His fortitude, initiative and aggressive
fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 54919 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at Park, Washington
Home Town: Sedro Woolley, Washington

SMITH, ALEX B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Alex B. Smith (297786), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of Company B, First
Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 17 June 1944. When his squad's
machine-gun fire failed to halt the advance of three oncoming tanks during an
enemy counterattack, Corporal Smith courageously left his position and, armed
only with a carbine and an antitank grenade launcher, attacked and put out of
action all three of the Japanese tanks. His determination, fighting spirit and
devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 6887
Born: at Magee, Mississippi
Home Town: Forest, Louisiana

*SMITH, EDWARD L., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Edward L. Smith, Jr. (340428), Private, U.S. Marine Corps,
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A,
FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces near the
Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8 - 9 October 8 - 9, 1942.
When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River,
Private Smith and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy
enemy assault against their hastily prepared positions. Approximately 150
Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke,
fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand
grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-t-hand combat against the
overwhelming hostile forces, Private Smith refused to be dislodged from his
position and, after exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died
at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service. Private Smith gallantly gave his life for his country.Board Serial: 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Rome, New York
Home Town: Rome, New York

SMITH, GEORGE OLIVERCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to George Oliver Smith (334946), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Rifleman of
Company C, First Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during
action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert
Islands, on 20 November 1943. When the leader and several other members of his
platoon had been killed or wounded and the need for more men in the front
lines became acute, Private First Class Smith courageously made his way back
to the beach through enemy sniper fire to obtain reinforcements and, finding
groups of hesitant men along the seawall, imbued them with his own indomitable
fighting spirit and gallantly led them in the face of heavy fire to the front,
thereby enabling the Company Commander to continue the advance. Completely
disregarding his own personal safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to intense
hostile fire in leading carrying details from the beach dump to provide
urgently needed ammunition and supplies and in bringing reinforcement panels
to the front lines. Painfully wounded in the face during one of these
missions, he refused medical attention, insisting that others he considered
more seriously wounded be treated first, and was finally evacuated against his
will. Private First Class Smith's splendid initiative, inspiring conduct and
fearless devotion to duty throughout a critical period were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 0647 (SofN Signed January 26, 1948)
Born: at San Antonio, Texas
Home Town: San Antonio, Texas

SMITH, HOWARD E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Howard E. Smith (432003), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A,
First Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on enemy Japanese forces during the invasion of
Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, 2 February 1944. After killing four of the
enemy who had dropped a grenade into a Marine light tank, Private First Class
Smith handed his gun to a comrade and proceeded forward alone, unarmed and in
the face of hostile rifle and machine-gun fire, to pull the wounded out of the
burning tank and into a nearby shell hole. His exceptional courage, gallant
fighting spirit and willingness to sacrifice his own safety for that of other
imperiled Marines reflected the highest credit upon Private First Class Smith
and the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 2788
Born: at Centerville, Ohio
Home Town: Clayton, Ohio

SMITH, IVAN THOMASCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ivan Thomas Smith (498107), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of
Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 10 May 1945. When
intense hostile mortar and machine-gun fire halted the advance of his unit,
Sergeant Smith immediately contacted three friendly tanks and led them into
advantageous positions to fire point-blank into enemy pillboxes and deeply
entrenched Japanese soldiers. Continuing his daring actions, he made several
trips across open terrain under heavy fire to carry four wounded men to
positions of safety and supervised the evacuation of two others. Returning to
the tanks, he again directed their fire on two enemy automatic weapons
positions until both were destroyed. By his outstanding courage and initiative
in the face of enemy fire, Sergeant Smith served as a constant inspiration to
others and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 79500
Born: at Conway Tup, Michigan
Home Town: Flint, Michigan

*SMITH, JAMES T.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James T. Smith (851417), Private First Class, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Squad Leader serving with
Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, on 15 September
1944. During a coordinated infantry-tank attack against a series of enemy
pillboxes retarding the advance of our assault forces and inflicting heavy
casualties on our troops, Private First Class Smith, on his own initiative,
boldly charged forward in the face of the withering barrage and waged a
single-handed battle against one of the emplacements. Drawing all immediate
hostile fire to himself, he was steadfastly holding the position which he had
seized when the enemy in surrounding pillboxes launched two successive
counterattacks in a desperate attempt to regain the emplacement. Mortally
wounded before assistance could reach him during this fierce action, Private
First Class Smith, by his daring initiative, inspired his comrades to charge
and seize all of the hostile pillboxes, thereby contributing essentially to
the success of an extremely dangerous mission. His courageous devotion to duty
throughout reflects the highest credit upon Private First Class Smith and the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 096
(February 1, 1945)
Born: at Lake City, Tennessee
Home Town: Lake City, Tennessee

SMITH, JOHN J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John J. Smith (0-8521), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism while serving with the First Battalion, SECOND Marines
(Reinforced), SECOND Marine Division, during initial landings on enemy
Japanese-controlled territory in the Solomon Islands Area, 7 to 9 August 1942.
When reinforcements were urgently needed elsewhere, Second Lieutenant Smith
and his company withdrew from positions on Florida Island where a dangerous
mission had just been completed, and proceeded by water to assist in the
attack on Gavutu and Tanambogo Islands. Although menaced by the withering
blasts of hostile weapons, he attempted a landing but was forced by extremely
heavy machine-gun fire to remain in the water for four hours before he was
able to get ashore. With the small number of men still with him, Second
Lieutenant Smith immediately obtained arms from friendly troops and, although
suffering a painful wound, participated in a vigorous action which forced the
enemy to retire. His aggressive fighting spirit and courageous devotion to
duty, maintained despite great personal risk, were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 1113 (SofN Signed December
4, 1943)
Born: at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

*SMITH, ROGER E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Roger E. Smith (0-18548), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Mortar Platoon Leader in Company
B, First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine
Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Guam in the
Marianas Islands on 21 July 1944. Moving his mortar platoon up from the beach
in the rear of advancing riflemen, First Lieutenant Smith observed a wounded
rifleman lying close to a hostile pillbox and, halting his men, fearlessly
advanced to the aid of the Marine under a continuous barrage from the Japanese
emplacement. Engaging the enemy with rifle fire and hand grenades, he held his
position despite the fierce opposition and attempted to neutralize the pillbox
with a flame-thrower but, failing in this, continued to move up on the enemy
while firing his rifle and, although mortally wounded during the bitter
hostilities, succeeded in silencing the hostile gun-battery. By his determined
initiative, valiant fighting spirit and resolute fortitude in the face of
terrific odds, First Lieutenant Smith contributed materially to the ultimate
success of our forces in recapturing this vital stronghold, and his unwavering
devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
004205 (January 11, 1945)
Born: at Overall, Tennessee
Home Town: Overall, Tennessee

SNEDEKER, EDWARD W.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward W. Snedeker (0-4082), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism as Commanding Officer of the Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division,
in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, from 2 to
22 June 1945. Following a period of sixty-two days of continuous fighting
against a determined enemy, Colonel Snedeker assumed responsibility for a zone
of action previously assigned two assault regiments. Skillfully maneuvering
his forces to pass through these elements, he launched an aggressive assault
on the enemy and, in a series of rapid advances, let his unit forward until it
reached the sea, thereby splitting Japanese forces strongly entrenched on
Oroku Peninsula. Completing this mission, he immediately directed his Regiment
against the final enemy defensive position on Kunishi Ridge. When repeated
daylight assaults to overrun the stronghold were halted by fierce hostile
resistance and difficult terrain, Colonel Snedeker personally undertook an
aerial reconnaissance of the area. Thereafter, he planned and executed a
daring attack by night and, taking the enemy by surprise, succeeded in
penetrating the hostile defenses and effecting subsequent total destruction of
organized resistance. By his courage and determination in the face of
overwhelming odds, Colonel Snedeker contributed materially to the success of
his Regiment in winning the bitter fight for Southern Okinawa. His leadership
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 84119
Born: at Peoria, Illinois
Home Town: Peoria, Illinois

SNIECKUS, BRONISLOW A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Bronislow A. Snieckus (460430), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader and
Gunner of Company G, Second Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on against enemy Japanese
forces on Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, on 1 February 1944. When the tanks
turned aside while his squad was participating in an armored and infantry
attack through an area covered by thick undergrowth, Private First Class
Snieckus fearlessly moved forward with his machine gun in his arms and engaged
the enemy in a fire fight. After setting up his weapon in the normal position,
he delivered an effective volume of fire and succeeded in repulsing two
hostile counterattacks despite heavy enemy fire. Although painfully wounded
while repulsing the second assault, he remained in position and continued to
direct the fire of his machine gun and to fire his carbine until ordered to
withdraw. By his aggressive fighting spirit, personal valor and courageous
initiative, Private First Class Snieckus served to inspire all who observed
him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 3777 (SofN Approved 1954)
Born: at Waterbury, Connecticut
Home Town: Waterbury, Connecticut

*SNYDER, THOMAS J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Thomas J. Snyder (440188), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Rifleman serving with Company F,
Second Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during the
assault on enemy Japanese-held Saipan in the Marianas, on 16 June 1944.
Fighting with determined aggressiveness during a powerful attack against
heavily fortified Japanese defenses, Corporal Snyder took the initiative when
his platoon was held up by the enemy and, pressing on alone in advance of his
unit, engaged and destroyed a hostile machine gun with his rifle fire, thereby
enabling his platoon to flank the enemy's position. Later in the same action,
he braved a terrific barrage to work his way forward again in a daring,
single-handed attempt to knock out a strongly entrenched automatic gun
position which had obstinately resisted our tank-led assault and the
persistent efforts of an entire battalion for more than a day. Gaining an
advantageous but dangerously exposed position, he opened fire upon the enemy,
blasting fiercely at his target until he fell, killed by a burst of Japanese
gunfire. By his indomitable fighting spirit, resolute determination and great
personal valor, Corporal Snyder contributed materially to the ultimate
conquest of this vital enemy stronghold, and his unwavering devotion to duty
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
11711 (January 18, 1945)
Born: at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

SPAZZAFERO, JOHN A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John A. Spazzafero (417289), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader in
a Rifle Platoon of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, SIXTH
Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu
Islands, 17 May 1945. When his squad was cut off from the remainder of the
company and then taken under heavy enemy fire during an attack on a strong
hostile position, Corporal Spazzafero placed his men in defensive locations
and took up a firing position despite painful wounds received during the
action. Although wounded a second time, he remained to direct his squad and,
spotting a group of the Japanese approaching the left flank, seized an
automatic rifle and fired into the formation from an erect position,
succeeding in breaking up the attack and in annihilating nine of the enemy
before a third, fourth and fifth wound incapacitated him. Gain refusing
evacuation, he remained at his post until darkness to lessen the danger to his
rescuers. His gallant fighting spirit, inspiring leadership and devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, Fleet Marine Force,
Pacific: Serial 98800
Born: at Summit Township, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Cleveland, Ohio

SPECHT, LYLE E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Lyle E. Specht (0-8911), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion,
Twenty-Ninth Marines (Reinforced), in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 17 June 1944. After his company had supported two
other companies in seizing a ridge, the battalion's objective, Captain Specht
ordered his men forward to assist in holding the ground gained. Realizing that
the right flank of the battalion was no longer secure because of numerous
casualties, he sent two platoons of his company to reinforce it. Seeing the
platoon withdraw to a reverse slope following an intense barrage of enemy
machine-gun and mortar fire, Captain Specht immediately proceeded to the top
of the ridge despite the hostile gunfire and, rallying his men, led them in
retaking the ridge and repulsing the subsequent counterattack of a strong
Japanese unit. By his leadership, courage and devotion to duty throughout
these hazardous operations, Captain Specht upheld the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 8745
Born: November 26, 1918 at Silverton, Oregon
Home Town: Silverton, Oregon

SPILLANE, JOHN J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John J. Spillane (311385), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Crew Chief of an Amphibian
Tractor of Company A, SECOND Amphibian Tractor Battalion, SECOND Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa
Atoll, Gilbert islands, on 20 November 1943. When several enemy grenades were
thrown into the troop-filled cargo compartment of his tractor during the
initial assault, Corporal Spillane unhesitatingly, and with complete disregard
for his own personal safety, began throwing the grenades out of the vehicle,
successfully disposing of two before the third exploded in his hand and
inflicted severe, multiple wounds. Corporal Spillane's splendid initiative,
fearless action and self-sacrificing devotion to duty in the face of grave
peril undoubtedly saved the lives of his companions and were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 0647
Born: at Waterbury, Connecticut
Home Town: Waterbury, Connecticut

SPOTTS, MELVIN JOHNCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Melvin John Spotts (0-27615), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism while attached to Company K, Third Battalion, Second
Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese
forces on Tinian, Marianas Islands, 4 August 1944. Leading a patrol along
enemy-held cliffs to clear out caves and outposts of hostile resistance,
Second Lieutenant Spotts safely extricated his men when fired upon by the
Japanese. Although partially blinded by a land mine which was thrown from one
of the caves and exploded in the midst of the patrol, he succeeded in leading
his men to a place of safety, personally directing the evacuation of two
members who had sustained serious wounds. His professional skill, courage and
devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 5464
Born: at Sterling, Illinois
Home Town: Angola, Indiana

STADLER, CLEMENT J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Clement J. Stadler (0-11102), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Battery E, Second Battalion,
Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese
forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 16 June 1944. When the ammunition dump
was set on fire by enemy shells, Captain Stadler boldly led a group of men
into the blazing area in a gallant effort to extinguish the flames. Although
hostile shellfire still covered the area, he personally buried individual
burning rounds and directed his men in extinguishing the main blaze, thereby
eliminating a great hazard to the Battalion and preventing the destruction of
large quantities of urgently needed ammunition. His heroic initiative,
aggressive leadership and zealous devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 7394 (SofN Signed January 28, 1948)
Born: at Independence, Kansas
Home Town: Downey, California

*STAMBAUGH, JACK R.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Jack R. Stambaugh (330350), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company B, First
Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 22 November
1943. Observing four Japanese soldiers attacking a wounded Marine in an
isolated position during the height of a fierce enemy night counterattack,
Private Stambaugh unhesitatingly risked his life to race to the aid of his
helpless comrade and, closing in for a brief, savage encounter, killed all
four of the enemy with his rifle and bayonet before succumbing to a neck wound
inflicted by a saber-wielding Japanese officer. By his intrepid spirit,
courageous action in the face of heavy odds and unselfish devotion to duty,
Private Stambaugh served as an inspiration to his fellow Marines and upheld
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life for his country.Commander In Chief, Pacific Forces, Serial 917
(June 19, 1946)
Born: at Wichita Falls, Texas
Home Town: Bowie, Texas

STAMPS, CLYDE H.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Clyde H. Stamps (255096), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
while serving as a Pilot in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO HUNDRED
FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO (MAG-22), Naval Air Station,
Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and Marine Forces against the
invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway on 4 and 5 June 1942.
During the initial attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, Technical Sergeant
Stamps, in the face of tremendous fire from Japanese fighter guns and
anti-aircraft batteries, dived his plane to the perilously low altitude of
four hundred feet before releasing his bomb. On 4 June, he participated in an
assault which resulted in the severe damaging of an enemy battleship. His cool
courage and utter disregard of personal safety were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 10, 1942
Born: at Cana, Texas
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

STANFORD, NORMAN R.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Norman R. Stanford (0-23102), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for
extraordinary heroism as a Naval Gunfire Observer of Headquarters Battalion,
FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa,
Ryukyu Islands, on 3 May 1945. Advancing with his forward observer team to one
of the battalion's front line companies which was subjected to heavy fire from
enemy 320-mm. mortars, First Lieutenant Stanford realized that observation
from this position was limited due to grazing hostile machine-gun and accurate
sniper fire and, crawling alone with a radio on his back to a position over
two hundred yards forward of the front lines to an exposed point overlooking
the enemy mortar positions, fearlessly adjusted the burst of our heavy shells
less than one hundred yards from himself, thereby completely destroying three
Japanese emplacements. His leadership, courage and unwavering devotion to duty
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 86003
Born: at Cohasset, Massachusetts
Home Town: Petersham, Massachusetts

STANKUS, HENRY WALTERCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Henry Walter Stankus (0-15865), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving
as a Platoon Leader in Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST
Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape
Gloucester, New Britain, on 30 December 1943. On combat patrol with his
platoon near the airfield when contacting the advance guard of a reinforced
company of Japanese, First Lieutenant Stankus immediately engaged the hostile
forces, repulsing vicious enemy counterattacks repeatedly in a desperate
effort to hold his ground despite serious depletion of his forces by
casualties. Resolutely continuing to lead the assault with his one remaining
squad when reinforcements arrived, First Lieutenant Stankus maintained his
furious offensive action against the enemy until the assault troops had
advanced well beyond his position. His conspicuous courage, indomitable
fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men
and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0693
(SofN Signed September 14, 1944)
Born: at Wallingford, Connecticut
Home Town: Wallingford, Connecticut

STAPP, DONALD H.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald H. Stapp (0-6843), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Division
Leader and a Pilot of Marine Fighting Squadron TWO-HUNDRED TWENTY-TWO
(VMF-222), Marine Air Group TWELVE (MAG-12), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in
aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands and
Bismarck Archipelago Areas, from 18 November 1943 to 19 March 1944.
Courageously leading his division in the face of intense antiaircraft fire and
aerial opposition, Major Stapp boldly participated in a total of ninety-nine
strike escorts, strafing missions and fighter sweeps over enemy territory,
inflicting severe damage on Japanese aircraft, barges, gun emplacements and
shore installations. Flying escort for bombers over Tobera Airfield, New
Britain, on 3 February, he shot down one and probably destroyed two other
enemy fighters and, maneuvering his plane with determined aggressiveness
during a dive-bomber attack against Simpson Harbor, Rabaul, on 17 February, he
personally shot two Zeroes from the sky and severely damaged a third. Engaged
in a daring fighter sweep over New Britain on 12 March, he succeeded in
destroying two Japanese fighter planes and probably a third which were
circling Tobera Airfield at approximately three hundred feet altitude. A
brilliant airman and leader and a daring fighter, Major Stapp contributed
vitally to the success of his squadron throughout these and other extremely
hazardous missions and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander, South Pacific: Serial
001776 (SofN Signed November 14, 1947)
Born: at Center Hill, Florida
Home Town: Mimi, Florida

STEA, ANTHONY J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Anthony J. Stea (472408), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of a
Machine Gun Squad of the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First
Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, during action against
enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Guam in the Marianas Group, 28 July
1944. Seriously wounded in the leg when the rest of his machine gun squad was
wiped out by a direct hit from enemy artillery, Private First Class Stea
remained at his post to load and fire his weapon. Sustaining an additional
serious wound a short time later, he continued raking the Japanese with
effective fire until he collapsed from loss of blood. By inflicting heavy
casualties on the enemy at a critical period, he contributed materially to the
defeat of the Japanese force in this action, and his great personal valor and
devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Stea and
the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 0296-295 (SofN Signed January 28, 1948)
Born: at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: New York, New York

STEFFEN, HARLAN S.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harlan S. Steffen (510573), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Tank Driver of
Company B, First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 15 May 1945. While
evacuating wounded infantrymen from in front of the lines, Corporal Steffen's
tank was struck by an armor-piercing shell which severed his left hand and
killed the assistant driver. Fully aware that his life would be in jeopardy if
he did not seek medical aid immediately to stanch the flow of blood and
realizing that the other crew members and wounded infantrymen would be at the
mercy of the enemy gun if he stopped the tank, he heroically remained at the
controls and drove over four hundred yards, fighting off unconsciousness and
pain and loss of blood. Although the hostile antitank gun scored four more
direct hits, he succeeded in delivering the tank and its load of casualties to
the safety of a defiladed area before reporting his injury to the tank
commander. By his self-sacrifice, indomitable courage and steadfast devotion
to duty, Corporal Steffen upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 98716
Born: at Unionville, Michigan
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan

*STEINAKER, DONALD B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Donald B. Steinaker (305240), Private First Class, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy
Japanese forces near the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8
- 9 October 8 - 9, 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position
along the Matanikau River, Private First Class Steinaker and other members of
his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily
prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense
jungle growth under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked the small group of
Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting
desperately in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile forces,
Private First Class Steinaker refused to be dislodged from his position and,
after exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post.
His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Private First Class Steinaker gallantly gave his life for his country.Board Serial: 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Syracuse, New York
Home Town: Syracuse, New York

STEPHENSON, JAMES L.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James L. Stephenson (912485), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of a Tank
Liaison Team of the Fifth Tank Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 22 February 1945.
Acting on his own initiative during a heavy rainfall which blinded the tank
drivers, Corporal Stephenson, proceeding on foot, led a platoon of tanks in
the face of intense enemy fire through hostile mine field areas to a firing
position. Braving enemy fire at close range, he directed the tanks' fire
against Japanese positions and, subsequently, led the vehicles safely back to
their own rear areas. His initiative, courage and unwavering devotion to duty
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific:
Serial 45500
Born: at New Diggins, Wisconsin
Home Town: Hazel Green, Wisconsin

*STERLING, BARNEYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Barney Sterling (300443), Private First Class, U.S. Marine
Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty as a member
of a Rifle Company of the Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese armed forces at the Tenaru River,
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 21 August 1942. Performing patrol duty and
armed only with a rifle when an overwhelming Japanese landing force launched a
furious attack, Private First Class Sterling, together with two other Marines,
promptly deployed and held off the enemy in their sector by fierce and
desperate fighting. Valiantly carrying on after enemy fire had killed one of
the group, Private First Class Sterling manned a light machine gun and
maintained his unyielding defense of our positions in spite of terrific odds
until he, too, was killed. His dauntless spirit of self-sacrifice and his
unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great peril sustain and enhance the
finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his
life for his country.SPOT AWARD (1942), Serial 18 (SofN Signed
March 18, 1943)
Born: at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

*STEVENSON, ROBERT E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert E. Stevenson (0-11643), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company A,
Fourth Tank Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces at Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 20 June and 4 July 1944.
Learning that two attempts to close a 400-yard gap between two infantry
battalions had failed, First Lieutenant Stevenson immediately reported to the
area and volunteered his services. Fully realizing the danger to his tanks, he
unhesitatingly pressed forward and, penetrating the entire distance under
heavy artillery and mortar fire, steadfastly maintained his position for a
period of two hours, drawing all enemy fire to the area and enabling the
battalions to establish contact free of Japanese resistance. Again
volunteering to enter a large draw where the intensity of hostile fire had
prevented a reconnaissance, he gallantly advanced and, when three of his tanks
were rendered inoperative by enemy action, maneuvered so skillfully as to
effect evacuation without a single casualty. By his brilliant leadership, his
indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage in the face of grave peril, First
Lieutenant Stevenson contributed materially to the success of these and other
hazardous operations in this vital war area, and his valiant devotion to duty
throughout this period was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
11704 (January 11, 1945)
Born: at Woodcliff, New Jersey
Home Town: Honeoye Falls, New York

STEVENSON, WILLIAM D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William D. Stevenson (0-6265), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving as Battalion
Communications Officer, Headquarters, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during
the enemy Japanese attack on Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on
the night of 13 and 14 September 1942. Placed in command of a patrol to
reconnoiter the left flank of the battalion reserve line and to determine the
location of the hostile troops enveloping that flank, Captain Stevenson, in
spite of severe enemy rifle and machine gun fire, completed this mission
successfully. Then, directed to return to the battalion command post, he took
over the battalion switchboard and, in the face of ever-present danger,
operated it effectively and skillfully. With all other personnel forced to
another position in the rear, and with his post entirely surrounded by
infiltrating Japanese, Captain Stevenson gallantly remained, and alone,
maintained communication with the division command post and with supporting
artillery, until the enemy in the rear cut the wires. His unswerving devotion
to duty and great personal valor were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 298 (SofN Signed June 23,
1943)
Born: at Franklin, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Titusville, Pennsylvania

STOTT, FREDERICK A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frederick A. Stott (0-14173), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Liaison Officer of the First
Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against
enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, 17 and 18 June 1944.
Personally contacting the various commanders in the front lines at a critical
time on the third day in this decisive battle, First Lieutenant Stott
efficiently organized a coordinated attack by tank, infantry and amphibian
tank units, maintaining this coordination while riding in the tank commander's
vehicle to confer with the infantry officers, aiding them in directing the
tanks to specific targets and in maintaining proper speed and course. On the
following day, he helped coordinate a similar attack while riding in an
amphibian tank and, although considerably shaken when the tank was set afire
by a large caliber shell, left the burning tank and proceeded on foot to
assist in bringing the attack to a successful conclusion. His initiative,
leadership and determination in the face of grave hazards were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific
Forces: Serial 12109 (SofN Signed October 28, 1947)
Born: at Andover, Massachusetts
Home Town: Andover, Massachusetts

STOUT, ROBERT F.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert F. Stout (0-7071), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED
TWELVE (VMF-212), Marine Air Group TWENTY-THREE (MAG-23), FIRST Marine
Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomons
Islands Area from 9 October 1942 to 6 November 1942. Throughout that strenuous
period when the Guadalcanal airfield was under constant bombardment and our
shore establishments in the area were menaced by the desperate counter thrusts
of a fanatical foe, First Lieutenant Stout repeatedly intercepted enemy
bombing raids and escorted our own torpedo and bombing planes toward hostile
objectives. With bold determination and courageous disregard of personal
safety, he pressed home numerous attacks against heavily escorted waves of
invading bombers and, in four vigorous fights against tremendous odds, shot
down a total of six Japanese planes. His superb flying skill and dauntless
initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 0750 (SofN Signed November
20, 1943)
Born: at Bethany, Missouri
Home Town: Fort Laramie, Wyoming

STRANAHAN, JAMES A., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James A. Stranahan, Jr. (0-11646), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of Company G,
Second Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action
against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 15 and 16 June
1944. When the original Commanding Officer became a casualty while landing,
First Lieutenant Stranahan assumed command and, adhering to operation orders,
rallied his men and led them through intense enemy shelling to the initial
objective where he established his position. Pushing back the flanks of the
Japanese despite their overwhelming numerical superiority, he led the fight
from this exposed position for more than a day until he was seriously wounded
and evacuated. In command of the first company to reach the objective in the
Division zone of action, First Lieutenant Stranahan, by his courage, gallant
leadership and cool initiative in the face of great odds, was directly
responsible for forming a base on which the remainder of the Battalion was
established and was thereby instrumental in making possible the success of a
difficult operation. His heroic conduct and devotion to duty were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
1787 (June 22, 1950)
Born: at Mercer, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Mercer, Pennsylvania

*STRANTZ, STANLEY A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Stanley A. Strantz (401465), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Squad Leader serving with Company A,
Twentieth Engineer Battalion, attached to the Third Battalion, Twenty-Fifth
Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on
Saipan, Marianas Islands, on 16 June 1944. When his squad of engineers was
pinned down by intense, persistent hostile machine-gun fire, Sergeant Strantz
courteously and with splendid initiative directed his men in a flanking attack
on the Japanese position, destroying the emplacement, capturing six of the
enemy and killing the remainder, thereby enabling his unit to advance. Cut off
from his platoon during a subsequent phase of the attack, he immediately
joined another company and led a tank across a ridge line in full view of the
enemy and under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire and, by telephone
communication with the tank, accurately pointed out targets for the crew until
he was mortally wounded. Sergeant Strantz' inspiring leadership, dauntless
fighting spirit and tenacious devotion to duty in the face of grave peril
contributed in large measure to the success of this vital operation and were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial
12703 (January 25, 1945)
Born: at Mt. Carmel, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

SUGARMAN, JACKCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jack Sugarman (369159), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving with
Company D, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during
action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area on the night
of October 24 - 25, 1942. During a mass frontal attack by a numerically
superior enemy force, Private First Class Sugarman, with his gun temporarily
out of action and his position threatened by hostile troops, removed the
weapon and, with the aid of a comrade, repaired and place it back in action
under heavy fire. On four separate occasions he saved the gun for capture,
repaired it under fire and continued to maintain effective resistance against
masses of attacking Japanese. By his skill and determination, he inflicted
heavy casualties upon the enemy and helped prevent a break-through in our
lines, which at that time, was weakly held by a small group of riflemen. His
actions throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.SPOT AWARD (1943), Serial 00192 (SofN Signed
April 2, 1943)
Born: at Media, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Media, Pennsylvania

SULLIVAN, RICHARD E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Richard E. Sullivan (0-12717), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while serving
with Company A, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese
forces near the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8 October
8 - 9, 1942. When the positions of the Marines along the Matanikau River were
threatened by a heavy enemy assault, Second Lieutenant Sullivan's platoon was
fiercely engaged by the spearhead of the attack. Continuously subjected to
hostile fire while fighting off troops in desperate hand-to-hand combat,
Second Lieutenant Sullivan, although wounded three times during the action,
courageously maintained his position throughout the night, thereby exacting a
tremendous toll of enemy dead. His gallant leadership and inspiring devotion
to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.SPOT AWARD (1942), Serial 00192 (SofN Signed
April 2, 1943)
Born: at Rock Hill, South Carolina
Home Town: Charlotte, North Carolina

*SWANBERGER, WALTER W.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Walter W. Swanberger (0-7538), Second Lieutenant, U.S.
Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in
the line of his profession while serving as a Pilot in Marine Fighting
Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), Marine Air Group TWENTY-TWO
(MAG-22), Naval Air Station, Midway, during operations of the U.S. Naval and
Marine Forces against the invading Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Midway
on 4 June 1942. Delivering a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly
superior number of Japanese bomber and fighter planes, Second Lieutenant
Swanberger aided in disrupting the plans of the enemy and lessening the
effectiveness of their attack, thereby contributing materially to the success
of our forces. As a result of his courageous and daring tactics and because of
the circumstances attendant upon this engagement, three can be little doubt
that Second Lieutenant Swanberger gallantly gave up his life in the service of
his country. He displayed the characteristics of an excellent airman in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Approved by the Secretary of the Navy on
November 10, 1942
Born: at El Centro, California
Home Town: Santa Anna, California

SWEENEY, JOHN B.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John B. Sweeney (0-7883), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service as Commanding Officer of a Rifle Company of
the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion, during the enemy Japanese attack on
Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 and 14
September 1942. Stationed along Lunga Ridge squarely in the path of the
hostile advance on Henderson Field, Captain Sweeney skillfully directed the
maneuvers of his company against overwhelming numbers of the enemy who
fiercely and relentlessly attacked his precarious position. With communication
practically cut off and the Japanese infiltrating to the rear of his line,
Captain Sweeney, by his great personal valor and unswerving devotion to duty,
so inspired and encouraged his desperately fighting men that they remained
doggedly at their post, despite the extremely heavy casualties. His brilliant
leadership, sound judgment and unyielding defiance of danger were important
factors in the successful defense of Henderson Field during those crucial
hours and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.SPOT AWARD, Serial 02162 (SofN Signed July 17,
1944)
Born: at Columbus, Ohio
Home Town: Columbus, Ohio

*SWISHER, WILLIAM H.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William H. Swisher (0-8530), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine
Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service while
serving as Artillery Forward Observer with the First Battalion, Fifth Marines,
FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon
Islands Area, 1 to 3 November 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal
safety, and in the face of almost constant fire from enemy artillery, machine
guns and snipers, First Lieutenant Swisher, with another officer, maintained
continuous observation and communication. Even at such times when maintenance
seemed impossible, he resolutely continued to call for and observe supporting
artillery fires for his own and adjacent units whenever needed. His skill,
fortitude and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Board Serial: 302 (March 5, 1943)
Born: at Danville, Illinois
Home Town: Danville, Illinois